Fate of 11 Nigerian troops unclear after ‘unauthorised’ plane landing in Burkina Faso

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have announced the commencement of their troop withdrawal from the strategic town of Uvira in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following a period of intense conflict that has led to significant civilian displacement. This announcement comes amid ongoing violence in the region, which has seen approximately 200,000 people flee their homes due to the M23's military actions.

Hundreds of Nigerians protested this week against the escalating insecurity in the country, which includes incidents of kidnappings, armed robbery, and violent crime. Demonstrators, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), marched in major cities such as Lagos and Abuja, urging the government to take immediate action to safeguard lives and property.

Nigeria has issued an apology following the detention of 11 of its military personnel by Burkina Faso, who were held after their C-130 cargo plane made an unauthorized emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso. Although the servicemen have been released, they have not yet returned home, raising concerns about the incident's implications for bilateral relations.