General Abdourahmane Tchiani has declared himself the new leader of Niger Republic after a dramatic coup.
Also known as Omar Tchiani, he staged a takeover which started on Wednesday when the presidential guards unit he led seized the country’s leader.
Deposed President Mohamed Bazoum was the first elected leader to succeed another since independence in 1960.
MUST READ: Niger Republic: Military officers announce overthrow of President Bazoum
Bazoum is currently thought to be in good health and still held captive by his own guards.
He had been considered a key ally by Western nations in the fight against Islamist militants in the region.
(Editor : Oloyede Oworu)
