Coup: Niger Republic Citizens Protest In Kano, Call For President Bazoum’s Release

Niger Republic nationals residing in Kano State, Nigeria, trooped out in their numbers on Saturday to protest the continuous detention of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum by the military junta in their country.

Naija News reports that the military junta in Niger removed the democratically elected President Bazoum in a coup manner on July 26, 2023.

Despite calls by international communities and concerned leaders across boards, the new military government has gone ahead to install leaders to head the African country.

However, during the protest in Kano yesterday, Nigerien citizens condemned the development in their country and appealed to the military junta to restore democracy in the country.

“We ask without conditions, the release of His Excellency, President Mohamed Bazoum, rightfully elected by the sovereign people of Niger, as well as his family and all other kidnapped persons,” the protesters said

The Chairman of the group, Lawalli Barma, while addressing journalists, passionately appealed for the immediate release of President Bazoum, his family, and all individuals reportedly abducted during the military intervention of July 16, 2023.

The protesters emphasised the importance of dialogue over military confrontation. The group urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reconsider its decision to deploy military forces in the Niger Republic and instead prioritise peaceful negotiations to resolve the conflict.

While commending President Bazoum’s efforts to enhance the economic development of the Niger Republic, Lawalli praised his commitment to capacity building which resulted in significant advancements in human and capital resources.

They also lauded the progress – in political, economic, and social development – achieved during President Bazoum’s tenure.

Expressing disappointment over the actions of Presidential Guard General Abdoul Rahamane Thiani, the group highlighted the crucial role the General was expected to play in ensuring the President’s security.