A coup has been publicly declared by military personnel on national television in Niger.
In a televised address, a group of uniformed soldiers, led by Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, revealed that they have taken control of the country. Their actions include dissolving the constitution, suspending all institutions, and shutting down the nation’s borders.
The president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, has been held in custody by the presidential guard since the early hours of Wednesday.
Following the coup announcement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reached out to President Bazoum, affirming Washington’s unwavering support during this challenging time. Similarly, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres offered the full support of the United Nations to President Bazoum in their conversation.
President Bazoum has been a crucial ally of Western nations in combating Islamist extremism in West Africa.
The military spokesman, Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, cited the ongoing deterioration of the security situation and the inadequate handling of economic and social matters as reasons for their intervention. He emphasized that all governmental institutions have been suspended, with day-to-day responsibilities now assumed by the heads of the respective ministries.
Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane also urged external partners not to interfere, announcing the closure of land and air borders until stability is restored. Additionally, a night curfew has been imposed from 22:00 to 05:00 local time until further notice.
The soldiers behind the coup identified themselves as members of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (NCSP).
