The junta authorities of Niger released about fifty individuals including former government ministers as recommended by the nationwide conference from February of this year.
Among those released are ex-ministers together with diplomatic personnel and journalists and military personnel who allegedly tried a coup attempt ten years ago. International demand to release Mohamed Bazoum has not resulted in his freedom while remaining in detention.
As per National Forum for Reconstruction recommendations the government released 50 individuals including ministers from the July 2023 government overthrow according to a public television statement from the general secretariat.
Former government minister Mahamane Sani Issoufou, Kalla Moutari and ex-ministers Ahmat Jidoud and Ibrahim Yacoubou were among those who obtained their release. These individuals were sons or daughters of former president Mahamadou Issoufou who ruled during 2011 to 2021.
Foumakoye Gado who held the presidency of PNDS along with Ousmane Toudou journalist and Alat Mogaskia former Nigerian ambassador became part of the group released by the government.
The government released these officials after the coup that installed General Abdourahamane Tiani as leader because he was previously the head of the presidential guard. The victims were arrested primarily for “conspiracy to undermine the security and authority of the state” while they were detained in various prison facilities.
The prosecutors have not yet established a court date to pursue charges against former president Bazoum although his presidential immunity has been taken away.
The military released three officers together with former chief of staff general Salou Souleymane because they were sentenced for trying to oust president Issoufou in 2015.
– Pardon –
The national conference held in February strengthened the ruling junta by authorising Tiani to remain in power in Niger for the next five years.
“I wish to reiterate my commitment to always work for forgiveness and reconciliation among Nigeriens,” junta leader Tiani declared after his inauguration as president last week.
“The forgiveness and reconciliation we call for cannot conflict with the legitimate aspirations of Nigeriens for justice.”
Since coming to power, Niger’s military rulers have severed relations with France and expelled French and American soldiers engaged in a battle against jihadists.
They have also left organisations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
READ ALSO: Breaking: Tinubu fires Kyari, NNPCL Board; appoints Engr. Ojulari as GCEO
At the same time it has moved closer to its two neighbours, Burkina Faso and Mali, both governed by military leaders and facing the same deadly jihadist attacks.
Together they have formed a group known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and strengthened ties with Russia.
Their three foreign ministers are expected in Moscow on Thursday and Friday for talks with their Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.
