In a shocking turn of events, Nigerien soldiers successfully executed a coup, removing President Mohamed Bazoum from office.
The dramatic announcement was made by Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane in a televised address late Wednesday evening, as he stood flanked by fellow soldiers.
Colonel Abdramane boldly proclaimed, “We, the defense and security forces… have decided to put an end to the regime of President Bazoum.”
Along with this declaration, the soldiers dissolved the constitution, suspended all state institutions, and closed the country’s borders.
The situation escalated further when it was reported that President Bazoum was held hostage by troops from the presidential guard on Tuesday. Heavy military presence was observed around the presidential palace, effectively denying the President access to his office and residence.
This marks the fifth coup in the history of the unstable West African nation since gaining independence from France in 1960, reflecting the ongoing political unrest in the region.
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, condemning the previous coup attempt in 2021, described it as “utterly naïve, despicable, and unacceptable.” The current situation has raised concerns among the international community, with countries, organizations, and diplomats pledging their support for Niger’s stability and democracy.
President Bola Tinubu, the chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), also expressed the organization’s strong stance against any acts that undermine democracy in the region. Following Tinubu’s statement, ECOWAS swiftly deployed Beninese President Patrice Talon to Niger, aiming to mediate the crisis and restore constitutional order.
The African Union (AU) Chairperson, Moussa Mahamat, also voiced his “strong” displeasure at the developments in Niger. He criticized the military for betraying their republican duty and urgently called for a reversal of their actions.
On the international front, the United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, expressed unwavering support for President Bazoum, affirming that the United States stands firmly behind him during this challenging period. Likewise, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reached out to President Bazoum, offering the UN’s full support in resolving the crisis and restoring peace to the nation.
As the world watches the situation unfold in Niger, the global community remains vigilant and committed to upholding democratic principles and ensuring a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Talks and diplomatic efforts are underway to address the coup and its implications for the West African region, but the road to stability and democracy may prove to be a challenging one for Niger.
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