Niger: Coup Threatens Human Rights, Civil Unrest

A forceful takeover of government in Niger could result in human rights violations and civil unrest,?ImpactHouse Centre for Development Communication (ImpactHouse CfDC) warned on Thursday.

There are indications that the military has overthrown the democratically elected government of President Mohamed Bazoum, with a man identified as Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane, in a video communique, announcing that ‘We have decided to put an end to the regime that you know’, citing a deteriorating security situation in the country and ‘poor economic and social governance’.

This action undermines the principles of democracy and the rule of law in the country and Africa.?

‘We express our utmost concern over the attempted coup d’etat and unconstitutional seizure of power, which undermines the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in the country. We view this unconstitutional seizure of power as a grave violation of democratic principles and an affront to the rights and aspirations of the Nigerien people’, Executive Director of ImpactHouse CfDC, Adenike Arigbabu, said in a statement..

‘The actions of the coup plotters undermine the rule of law, democratic institutions, and the will of the Nigerien people, who deserve to have their voices heard through free and fair elections.

‘We urge all parties involved to prioritise the peaceful resolution of conflicts and adhere to the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. This unconstitutional takeover of power must not be condoned, and those responsible for orchestrating or supporting the coup must be held accountable through legal channels’.

Arigbabu also called on regional and international organisations, including Economic Council of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), to engage in diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue and fine a peaceful solution to the current political crisis.

‘Only through inclusive and transparent dialogue can Nigeriens chart a path towards a more stable, prosperous, and democratic future’, she added.

As events unfold in Niger, ImpactHouse CfDC calls on the military authorities to ensure the protection of all civilians while respecting international humanitarian law.