Paris demands 'immediate' release of French official in Niger

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENAVA (AA) - France demanded Tuesday that Niger immediately release an advisor for French citizens abroad.

"France is following with the utmost attention the situation of Stephane Jullien, advisor to the French abroad based in Niger, arrested on September 8 by Nigerien security forces," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "We call for his immediate release.”

It said its embassy has been fully mobilized to ensure the “consular protection of our compatriot” since the first day of the coup.

Niger was plunged into turmoil July 26 when Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, a former commander of the presidential guard, led a military intervention that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.

The military recently instructed French officials to depart the country. But France has refused to comply, arguing that the junta is not Niger's legitimate authority.