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Nigerian Soldiers Remain in Burkina Faso After Aircraft's Controversial Forced Landing

Nigerian soldiers who were on board a military aircraft that made a forced landing in Burkina Faso last week remain in the West African country, according to Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar.

The incident occurred on Monday, December 8, when the Confederation of Sahel States (AES)—a bloc comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic—accused a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft of violating its airspace. The AES, which has broken away from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), authorized its members to "neutralize" any aircraft violating its territory.

Conflicting Narratives and Regional Tensions

The aircraft was carrying 11 Nigerian soldiers at the time. The Nigerian Air Force stated the plane was on a "ferry mission to Portugal" and suggested the landing was forced due to a technical issue. However, authorities from the AES, particularly Mali's junta leader Assimi Goita, described the incident as an "unfriendly act" carried out in defiance of international law.

This development coincides with heightened regional tensions. On the same day, Nigerian forces conducted airstrikes in neighboring Benin Republic to help foil a coup attempt, showcasing Nigeria's active military role in the region.

Diplomatic Efforts and Unclear Resolution

Minister Tuggar's statement confirms the soldiers are still in Burkina Faso, but the exact circumstances of their detention and the status of diplomatic negotiations for their release remain unclear. The situation highlights the fragile political and security landscape in West Africa and the complex relationship between Nigeria and the new AES alliance.

The Nigerian government is expected to continue diplomatic engagements to secure the safe return of its personnel.

*Source: The Port City News*
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