Soldiers in Niger have taken control of the country in a coup announced on national television. The soldiers declared the dissolution of the constitution, suspension of all institutions, and closure of the nation’s borders. They also imposed a curfew from 10 pm to 5 am until further notice.
Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, surrounded by fellow uniformed soldiers, stated that the defence and security forces had decided to end President Bazoum’s regime. The decision was attributed to the deteriorating security situation and poor economic and social governance in the country.
The international community, including regional leaders like the president of Benin, Patrice Talon, has called for the release of President Bazoum. He took office two years ago in Niger’s first peaceful transition of power since gaining independence from France in 1960.
President Bazoum is known as one of the few pro-Western leaders in the Sahel region. He assumed office in April 2021 amid challenges of poverty and jihadist insurgencies in Niger.
Amidst the unfolding events, the presidency released a message on Twitter, stating that elements of the Presidential Guard had attempted to gain the support of the national armed forces and the national guard. However, the army and national guard were ready to take action against the involved elements.
After President Bazoum’s detention, his supporters tried to approach the official complex, but they were dispersed by members of the Presidential Guard, resulting in one person getting injured.
The ruling coalition parties in Niger’s capital, Niamey, have condemned the coup attempt, denouncing it as “suicidal and anti-republican madness.” They also reported that certain elements of the presidential guard had sequestered President Bazoum, his family, and the interior minister.
International bodies, including ECOWAS and the African Union, have decried the attempted coup and demanded the immediate and unconditional release of President Bazoum. They warned that those involved in the coup would be held responsible for his safety.
The European Union also expressed its support for ECOWAS’s statement and strongly opposed any attempts to destabilize democracy and threaten Niger’s stability.
The situation in Niger remains tense, with efforts underway for mediation by President Talon. Niger has a history of coups, experiencing four since gaining independence in 1960.
The country, home to 22 million people, grapples with poverty and jihadist campaigns in its southwest and southeast regions. These challenges have led to a humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their homes.
The military, facing significant challenges, is receiving support from the United States and France, which have bases in the region.
As the world closely watches the developments in Niger, hopes are for a peaceful resolution to the crisis and the safe release of President Bazoum. The international community urges all parties involved to seek dialogue and a peaceful path forward for the nation.
