African Union Condemns Attempt To Seize Power By Force In Niger After Deadly Niamey Clashes
The African Union Commission has condemned the violence and what it described as an attempt to seize power by force in Niger Republic following armed clashes and attacks on several sensitive sites in the capital, Niamey.
The President of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said he was closely monitoring developments in Niger after serious incidents were reported during the night of August 28 to 29, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the African Union Commission, the violence involved armed clashes and attacks on several sensitive locations across Niamey, resulting in casualties and significant material damage.
“The President of the Commission strongly condemns the resort to violence and any attempt to seize power by force,” the statement said.
Youssouf called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and urged them to prioritise the protection of civilians and the preservation of peace and stability in the country.
He also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the violence and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
“The President of the Commission reaffirms the African Union’s commitment alongside the people of Niger in favour of peace, stability, and national cohesion,” the statement added.
The continental body further reaffirmed its readiness to support efforts aimed at restoring constitutional order in Niger, in line with the African Union’s relevant instruments and principles.
The African Union has consistently opposed unconstitutional changes of government across the continent and has called for political crises to be resolved through peaceful and constitutional means.
The Commission said it would continue to closely monitor the situation in Niger and remained prepared to support efforts to restore peace and stability in the country and the wider Sahel region.
The latest development has heightened concerns over growing instability across the Sahel, a region that has faced repeated political crises, military interventions, insurgencies and other security challenges in recent years.
Gunfire, Explosions Rock Niamey
Street News Reporters previously reported that gunfire and explosions rocked Niamey in the early hours of Saturday, August 29, 2026, with sustained fighting reportedly taking place around key government and military installations.
The incident reportedly began at about 1:00 a.m., with heavy exchanges of gunfire and explosions heard in several parts of the Nigerien capital.
According to Reuters, witnesses reported gunfire around Diori Hamani International Airport and near the presidential palace, while another witness described intense exchanges of fire around the presidential complex.
A resident also told AFP that heavy gunfire and explosions were heard around Base 101, a major military installation located within the airport complex.
A video circulating on X and seen by Street News Reporters appeared to show residents fleeing or panicking as gunshots and explosions were heard.
One person in the footage also appeared to have been struck by gunfire.
The circumstances surrounding the clashes and the identities of those behind the reported attacks remain subject to further investigation as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The African Union’s latest statement underscores the continental body’s opposition to any attempt to alter political power through violence and its call for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
