By Erewunmi Peace

A diplomatic row is brewing between Nigeria and Burkina Faso after authorities in Ouagadougou detained 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel and seized a C-130 Hercules aircraft over what they described as an “unauthorised airspace violation.”

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, when the aircraft made an unexpected landing at the Bobo-Dioulasso Airport in Burkina Faso.

Burkina Faso’s Claim: ‘Airspace Violation’

According to a statement attributed to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, the Nigerian aircraft allegedly entered Burkina Faso’s airspace without prior clearance.

The AES maintains that the landing was “unauthorised,” leading security forces to detain the aircraft and its 11-member crew for investigation.

Officials in the Sahel bloc described the action as a necessary defence of their territorial sovereignty.

Nigeria’s Response: ‘It Was a Technical Emergency’

However, the Nigerian Air Force has strongly denied claims of airspace violation. A NAF spokesman said the aircraft made a precautionary landing following technical issues mid-flight.

According to Nigeria’s account, the pilots had communicated with Burkinabè authorities before landing and did not breach any aviation rules.

The Air Force insists that the situation should not be misinterpreted as hostile, adding that discussions are ongoing to secure the safe release of the personnel and the aircraft.

Diplomatic Channels Activated

Sources in Abuja say Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened communication with Burkina Faso to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Efforts are also underway through military and regional channels to resolve the standoff peacefully.

Growing Concerns

The detention has sparked concern among regional observers and security analysts, who warn that tensions between West African nations—especially between ECOWAS members and the Sahel alliance—remain fragile following last year’s political realignments.

As of now, neither country has released a detailed official report, and the personnel remain in custody pending further diplomatic negotiations.