Finally, Soldiers Announce Coup in Niger

Soldiers in Niger Republic have finally announced a coup, the first in 13 years in the West African country, on National TV, ending hours of uncertainty about President Mohamed Bazoum’s government.

Col Maj Amadou Abdramane, alongside nine other uniformed soldiers behind him made the announcement after President Bazoum has been held for hours since early Wednesday.

Abdramane said they had dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions and closed the nation’s borders.

He cited “the continuing deterioration of the security situation, and poor economic and social governance” as the reason for seizing power.

According to him, the soldiers were acting for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP).

“We, the defence and security forces… have decided to put an end to the regime you know,” he said.

The army spokesman warned that “All external partners are asked not to interfere,” adding that a night curfew would take effect from 22:00 until 05:00 local time until further notice.
There have been pressure from international community, including the Economic Community of West African States, for the release of the president.

The sub-regional block had in a statement warned that it would not accept the “attempted coup” and subversion of constitutional authority by the “plotters”.

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu who is also the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government had assigned Benin Republic President Patrice Talon to immediately go to Niger to mediate the governance crisis in that country.

Bazoum replaced Mohammed Issoufou after being democratically elected in 2021.

Niger has witnessed four coups since independence from France in 1960, as well as many attempted coups.

The country’s last coup came in February 2010, seizing power from then President Mamadou Tandja.