Niger’s junta shuts airspace and accuses nations of invasion plans

Mohamed Toumba, one of the soldiers who ousted Nigerian President Mohamed Bazoum, addresses supporters of Niger’s ruling junta in Niamey (AP)

Niger’s mutinous soldiers have closed the country’s airspace and accused foreign powers of preparing an attack, as the junta defied a deadline to restore the ousted president.

Military officials said any attempt to fly over the country will be met with “an energetic and immediate response”.