The state of press freedom in Niger is currently under significant threat, with transition authorities accused of using intimidation and arbitrary arrests against media professionals covering security issues and the ongoing national conflict.
Following the political upheaval on July 26, 2023—when Abdourahamane Tchiani, leader of the presidential guard, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and established the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland—the environment for independent reporting has deteriorated. Many journalists have resorted to self-censorship to avoid potential retaliation or harassment from the ruling military council.
“This blatant disregard for the right to information and the safety of journalists comes at a critical time when the public requires transparent reporting on the conflict and the government’s actions. We urge the authorities in Niger to immediately release all media workers detained for their work and ensure they can operate without fear of imprisonment,” stated Samira Daoud, Regional Director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International.
A notable case occurred on April 24, 2024, involving Soumana Maiga, the editorial director of L’Enquêteur. He was taken into custody after his outlet reported on the alleged installation of surveillance technology by Russian operatives within state facilities. Currently held on charges of compromising national defense, he could face a decade in prison if convicted.
The transition government must uphold its legal promises to protect and promote the fundamental human rights of everyone within the country.
Samira Daoud, Regional Director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International
Earlier that month, on April 13, 2024, Ousmane Toudou, a journalist and former communications aide to the deposed president, was also apprehended. His arrest followed social media posts from the previous year in which he spoke out against the military takeover. Despite legal requirements for a four-day custody limit, Ousmane Toudou has yet to see a judge. Furthermore, he faces a military tribunal, a move that contradicts international standards regarding the trial of civilians.
« We are becoming more cautious with our reporting to stay safe »
The security situation in the Tillabéri region has also become a dangerous topic for the media. Tchima Illa Issoufou, a correspondent for the BBC’s Hausa service, faced accusations of attempting to destabilize Niger after reporting on the conflict in the west. Targeted by supporters of the transition authorities on social media and sought by security forces, she was forced to flee the country. Her reporting also led to the arrest of civil society member Ali Tera on April 26, 2024, who was subsequently transferred to the Niamey civil prison.
An anonymous media executive in Niger shared that the professional climate has become incredibly hostile, noting that basic journalistic principles are under fire, forcing many to weigh every word to avoid persecution.
Institutional independence has also been hit. In January 2024, the Maison de la Presse, which represents various private and public media organizations, was dissolved by the authorities. It was replaced by a government-appointed committee led by an official from the Ministry of the Interior.
“The rights to free expression and a free press are enshrined in both national law and international agreements, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which Niger is a signatory. It is imperative that the current leadership fulfills its obligations to respect these freedoms,” Samira Daoud added.