Amidst mounting tensions and unprecedented events, the world was taken aback when the news of the Niger coup broke out. The West African nation of Niger witnessed a dramatic upheaval as its military declared a sudden takeover on national television. The announcement, made live to the nation, revealed the dissolution of the constitution, the suspension of all institutions, and the closure of the country’s borders.
President Mohamed Bazoum has been under the custody of the presidential guard since the early hours of Wednesday.
Notably, neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso have also faced similar coups triggered by uprisings in recent years. The new military leaders in these countries have also experienced strained relationships with France, their former colonial ruler, which also has a historical connection with Niger.
At the time of this report, President Bazoum’s exact location remains uncertain. Nevertheless, in a statement released on Twitter, he asserted that the hard-earned progress would be protected, and Nigerians who cherish democracy would ensure it endures.
In the absence of President Bazoum, Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou has declared himself the head of state, urging all supporters of democracy to resist this Niger coup attempt.
The rationale behind the Niger coup was attributed to the worsening security situation, along with issues related to economic and social governance. During the TV broadcast on Wednesday, Col Maj Amadou Abdramane, flanked by nine other uniformed soldiers, declared, “We, the defence and security forces… have decided to put an end to the regime you know. This follows the continuing deterioration of the security situation and poor economic and social governance.”
Col Maj Abdramane further declared the suspension of all national institutions, with the heads of ministries assuming temporary responsibilities. To maintain the situation’s stability, he urged all external partners not to interfere, announcing the immediate closure of land and air borders. In addition, a night curfew from 22:00 to 05:00 local time has been imposed until further notice.
The soldiers identified themselves as acting under the banner of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP).
Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Niger has experienced four successful coups and several attempted ones, further complicating its political landscape. Niger faces significant challenges, with two insurgencies affecting different regions – one in the southwest, originating from Mali in 2015, and the other in the southeast.