Niamey, Niger – “No talk about politics today,” Aissata told her teenage daughter on their way to the family’s traditional Sunday gathering in Niamey. “We can’t discuss all of this with the others. I don’t want any tension at the table.” The 60-year-old mother of four and former teacher returned to Niger with her family five years ago after spending most of her adult life in the United States. She and her husband decided to retire in their home country when their youngest daughter left home for her studies.
Following the coup on July 26, 2023, which ousted the democratically elected leader Mohamed Bazoum, Aissata has embraced the military government and its new president, Abdourahamane Tchiani. “I believe some misunderstand Tchiani as part of the old established system that he now condemns. But as the former head of the presidential guard, he is not responsible for the shortcomings of previous governments,” she explained.
Tchiani has proclaimed his intention to free the country from the old system and prioritize the needs of Niger and its people. This message resonates with many Nigerians who have rallied around the revived phrases “Labou Sani no” and “Zentchen Kassa,” which signify a steadfast commitment to the nation.
Since the coup, the economic situation has worsened. The regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), imposed a series of economic sanctions against Niger, resulting in rising prices for essential foods. According to Niger’s National Institute of Statistics, the price of rice and sorghum increased by over 16 percent in just one month. Additionally, the country is facing electricity shortages, as Nigeria, which supplies 70 percent of Niger’s electricity, has halted its deliveries due to the sanctions.
As a result, many Nigerians, according to Aissata, have struggled to access medicine and basic necessities, creating significant uncertainty among the population. “Most Nigerians did not have the connections to receive goods from abroad. People were fighting to survive,” she said.
Concurrently, deep political divisions have emerged among Nigerians. “You are either pro-junta or pro-Bazoum,” explained Fatima, Aissata’s sister, who lost her job after the coup. “There has been a witch hunt in Niger since they came to power. They want power and wealth, not to create a better nation,” she added.
The level of tension has increased, both at home and in workplaces, making it difficult for people to discuss politics without it escalating into conflict. Aissata and Fatima now often avoid the topic entirely. “I can’t trust anyone – not even my sister – if she thinks it’s okay that the former president and his family are treated the way they are,” Fatima said.
Bazoum was immediately confined to his residence after the coup and has been denied his freedom for nearly a year. According to recent developments, he has been stripped of his immunity and may face charges of high treason.
In response to the coup, Niger has formed new strategic alliances with military regimes in neighboring countries, marking a shift in its foreign policy. The military government has also maintained its goal of ending the exploitation of Niger’s natural resources by foreign powers, which has led to further tensions with France, the former colonial power that has now closed its embassy in Niamey.
The situation in Niger is complex, marked by historical, political, and social factors, as the population grapples with the consequences of the coup and the subsequent sanctions. Many Nigerians like Aissata and Fatima are fighting for their beliefs while continuing their daily struggle for survival.
*Names changed to protect privacy.