In July 2023, Niger experienced a dramatic shift in power when some members of its military announced that they had taken control of the country. They suspended the constitution and declared a new leadership. The man behind this coup, Abdourahamane Tchiani, became the new President of Niger. His main reason for taking over? He said the country was becoming too insecure, with rising threats to peace and stability.
But the tension didn’t end there. Soon after, Niger’s new government made serious accusations against high-ranking officials from the previous administration, led by former President Mohamed Bazoum. Nine former officials, including Karingama Wali Ibrahim, who used to be in charge of the presidential guard, and Rhissa Ag Boula, a top security advisor, were accused of spying for a foreign country. Not only were they accused of espionage, but the authorities also claimed they were working to overthrow the new leadership.
These former officials were stripped of their Nigerian citizenship, a shocking move that made headlines. They were charged with disturbing public peace, collaborating with foreign intelligence services to encourage military action against Niger, and letting foreign operatives infiltrate the country. The accusations went further—these officials were blamed for trying to break the spirit of the army and spread false information to destabilize the nation.
The tension escalated when Niger’s government declared 20 more ousted officials wanted in September. These included well-known figures like former Prime Minister Ouhoumoudou Mahamadou and former Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massaoudou. They were all accused of treason and conspiring against the new regime.
To make matters worse, Bazoum, the former president, and his wife remain under house arrest, unable to leave their residence. Their fate is uncertain as the current government continues to tighten its grip on power.
At the United Nations General Assembly in September 2024, Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, spoke out, addressing the international community. It’s clear that Niger’s political landscape is far from stable, with accusations of espionage, betrayal, and power struggles unfolding daily.
This situation is more than just a political drama—it’s a battle for control, where former allies have become enemies, and the country’s future hangs in the balance.
