The leader of Niger military junta, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, says while the country does not want war, it will be ready to defend itself if necessary.
TheHintsNews reports that the leader of the mutineer had in a broadcast on Saturday told the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to have a rethink over its planned attack on his country, saying it won’t be a walk in the park.
Tchiani, who stated this Saturday added that member countries of ECOWAS do not realise that Niger has become the key to containing the region from destabilisation against the backdrop of increased terrorist activity.
The military leader who was quoted as saying by the Al Jazeera broadcaster noted that the sanctions imposed against his country were aimed at putting pressure on the rebels, and not at finding a solution to the current situation.
He said: “Neither the army nor the people of Niger want war, but we will resist any manifestation of it.”
Tchiani emphasised that rebels do not seek to seize power in the country but rather seek to come to a solution that would meet the interests of the people.