Niger revokes citizenship of seven allies of ousted president over terrorism allegations

The military junta in Niger has announced the temporary revocation of citizenship for seven individuals accused of collaborating with foreign intelligence and supporting terrorism, including former officials and prominent figures from the nation’s rebel movements.

Interim president Omar Chiani, speaking on national television, revealed that those targeted by this measure were alleged allies of the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.

Among the accused are former Foreign Minister Hasoumi Messaoudou and ex-Commerce Minister El Kash El Hada, both facing charges of conspiracy and treason against the state.

Also named are former army colonel Sidna Maman Kadila and rebel leader Moussa Salah, who is implicated in leading attacks against the military in northern Niger, demanding Bazoum’s reinstatement.

Niger’s government claims that the seven individuals were involved in acts perceived as supporting terrorism or colluding with foreign entities to incite armed groups against the state, threatening its security and stability.

This action is part of a broader decree initiated in August 2023 to catalog individuals suspected of endangering the country’s strategic interests.

In a similar move, Niger’s authorities revoked the citizenship of nine other members of the former government in October 2023.