President Bazoum is recognised as a crucial Western ally in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa, as noted by the BBC. Colonel Maj Amadou Abdramane, alongside nine others, made the announcement stating that the defence and security forces had decided to put an end to President Bazoum's regime. The decision was attributed to the ongoing deterioration of the security situation and the poor state of economic and social governance in the country.
As a result of the coup, all of Niger's institutions have been suspended, and the heads of ministries are now tasked with managing day-to-day affairs. Colonel Abdramane warned external partners not to interfere in the country's internal affairs, declaring the closure of land and air borders until the situation stabilises.
To maintain control and impose their authority, the coup leaders have implemented a night curfew from 22:00 to 05:00 local time until further notice. The military intervention comes in the wake of increased jihadist uprisings in neighbouring countries Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which experienced coups in recent years. In these instances, the new military leaders have clashed with France, the former colonial power that previously governed Niger.
The coup in Niger has faced condemnation from various international bodies, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union, the United States, and the United Nations. The swift reaction from the international community underscores the concern and potential implications of political instability and violence in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the world will be closely monitoring developments in Niger and the impact of the coup on regional stability and counterterrorism efforts. The international community's response and actions taken by neighbouring countries and regional organisations will play a critical role in shaping the outcome of this political crisis.