Niger Junta Releases Detainees, Seeks Reconciliation

Niger’s military government announced on Tuesday the release of approximately 50 individuals, including former ministers from the ousted administration of President Mohamed Bazoum, in line with recommendations from a national dialogue held in February.

Among those freed are former government officials, a diplomat, a journalist, and soldiers previously accused of attempting a coup in 2010. However, Bazoum—deposed in July 2023—remains in detention despite mounting international pressure for his release.

Junta Consolidates Power Amid Calls for Reconciliation

The February national conference solidified the ruling junta’s authority, formally extending General Abdourahamane Tiani’s rule for another five years. Following his inauguration last week, Tiani pledged to foster "forgiveness and reconciliation" while emphasizing the need for justice.

"The forgiveness and reconciliation we call for cannot conflict with the legitimate aspirations of Nigerians for justice," Tiani stated.

Bazoum, under house arrest since the coup, was notably excluded from the releases. When questioned by the BBC, Justice Minister Aliyou Daouda cited "national security and sovereignty" as reasons for his continued detention.

"The question of his release is an internal matter in Niger and only concerns Niger," Daouda said. Bazoum faces charges of undermining national security and high treason.

Regional Shifts: From ECOWAS to Russian Ties

Since seizing power, Niger’s military leaders have severed long-standing ties with France, expelled French and American troops engaged in counterterrorism operations, and withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Instead, the junta has strengthened alliances with neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali—both under military rule—forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The bloc has deepened cooperation with Russia, with its foreign ministers set to meet Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in Moscow this week.

Details of the Released Detainees

In a televised statement, the government confirmed the releases were based on recommendations from the National Forum for Reconstruction. Among those freed were former oil minister Mahamane Sani Issoufou, ex-defence minister Kalla Moutari, and ex-finance minister Ahmat Jidoud.

Also released were Foumakoye Gado, head of the former ruling PNDS party, journalist Ousmane Toudou, and Alat Mogaskia, Niger’s former ambassador to Nigeria. They had been detained on charges of conspiring against state security following the 2023 coup.

Several military officers convicted of past coup attempts, including General Salou Souleymane, were also pardoned. Meanwhile, Bazoum’s immunity remains revoked, with no trial date set for his case.