Niger’s Detained Ex-President Faces Growing International Pressure for Release
NIAMEY, Niger – More than two and a half years after a military coup, ousted Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum and his wife remain in detention, sparking condemnation from international bodies and a diplomatic rift with the European Union. The ongoing detention underscores a broader crackdown on dissent within the West African nation.
The European Parliament on March 11 unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the “arbitrary detention” of Bazoum and “other individuals detained in the coup,” demanding their immediate release. The resolution highlights Niger’s previous role as an EU partner in the Sahel region.
Niger’s Foreign Affairs Ministry swiftly reacted, summoning the EU representative in Niamey and accusing the bloc of interference in its internal affairs. This is not the first time international concerns have been met with resistance from the ruling junta.
The detention has been repeatedly denounced as illegal. In February 2025, a United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concluded that Bazoum and his wife were being held unlawfully, violating international human rights law. Similarly, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice ruled in December 2023 that their detention was unlawful and ordered their release – a ruling the junta has ignored.
Instead of releasing Bazoum, the military authorities have moved to prosecute him. In June 2024, a court lifted his presidential immunity, paving the way for charges of high treason, following proceedings criticized for failing to meet basic due process standards.
The case reflects a wider trend of repression. At least 30 former government officials are reportedly being held without due process. Prominent human rights activist Moussa Tiangari was arrested in December 2024 and remains detained on terrorism-related charges, which critics say are fabricated. Six journalists, arrested in October 2025 under a controversial cybercrime law, also remain in custody.
This crackdown extends to the media, political opposition, and civil society groups. Authorities have restricted opposition activity, delayed a return to civilian rule, and targeted critics, creating a bleak outlook for democracy in Niger.
International bodies urge the junta to heed growing calls for Bazoum’s release and to respect fundamental rights. The continued detention raises serious concerns about the rule of law and the future of political freedoms in Niger.
