Life has returned to normal in Niger’s capital, Niamey, a day after the military government contained a mutiny by soldiers.
Heavy fighting broke out in the early hours of Saturday as dozens of troops reportedly attempted to storm the presidential palace. Several soldiers were killed, while others were detained after the mutiny was brought under control.
The soldiers were reportedly angered by the government’s failure to contain growing militant attacks in the country.
Saturday’s incident marked the third time fighting has occurred in Niamey this year. However, the previous two incidents involved jihadist attacks on a key military base at the city’s airport.
A resident of Niamey, Hassane Assoumane, said the mutiny was a sign that there were unresolved concerns within the military.
“As soon as there’s a mutiny, it means that things aren’t going well. It means that perhaps the soldiers have something to demand, and now it’s up to the current authorities to find a solution,” Assoumane said.
Niger’s leader, General Abdourahmane Tiani, seized power in a military coup three years ago, promising to improve security across the country.
However, his administration has continued to face attacks from militant groups linked to the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda.
Since taking power, Tiani has severed military ties with France, Niger’s former colonial power, and strengthened relations with countries including Iran, Turkey and Russia.
Russia’s paramilitary Africa Corps was also reportedly involved in efforts to repel Saturday’s mutiny.
