In Niger, leaders of the military junta that seized power in July are accusing France of massing troops and equipment in neighboring ECOWAS nations in preparation for military intervention in Niger.

Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane: “These underhanded delaying tactics are designed to dull the patriotic ardor of the Nigerien people in their fight for the total withdrawal of French troops from Niger, in order to achieve a more successful military intervention against our country.”

Tension has been escalating between Niger and its former colonial ruler since the military coup. French troops and France’s ambassador have ignored demands to leave the country.