Nigeria has announced the closure of its border with Niger Republic following the military takeover that toppled the elected government of President Mohammed Bazoum on Thursday.
The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, made this known on Friday at Illela border, Sokoto state, where he said the decision was taken to ensure the security and safety of Nigerians.
He said that with the current situation in Niger, the borders have been shut down, and only Nigerians who are returning home are allowed to cross the border. He also advised Nigerians who were planning to travel to Niger to stay safe at home and avoid any unnecessary risks.
He added that Nigeria Customs had deployed its personnel to block all the illegal routes through which some of the foreigners may try to infiltrate into the country.
“You know Sokoto and Niger Republic, we are a homogeneous society, with the same language, religion and culture, but we have a colonial boundary which we must respect,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the Customs Service was working in collaboration with other security agencies to monitor the situation and prevent any breach of peace.
Niger Republic has been plunged into a political crisis after a group of soldiers stormed the presidential palace and arrested President Bazoum and some of his cabinet members. The coup leaders claimed they acted to save the country from chaos and corruption. They also announced the suspension of the constitution and the dissolution of all state institutions.
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