As of Saturday morning, The European Union (EU) has suspended all aid to Niger immediately, after General Abdourahamane Tiani declared himself the country’s leader following a military coup. Military leaders initially announced a coup on National TV on Thursday stating that this was due to the “continuing deterioration of the security situation, and poor economic and social governance.”
“In addition to the immediate cessation of budget support, all cooperation actions in the domain of security are suspended indefinitely with immediate effect,” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement. As one of the major recipients of foreign aid, the EU allocated 503 million euros, (about 330 FCFA).
While other global leaders have condemned the ongoing situation including Kenyan president William Ruto, who released a press statement Friday afternoon, initial reactions on social media and within Niger seem to be more supportive.
“… And call for the immediate release of the president…” You are calling as who? On whose behalf are you calling? Who asked you to call? Which weapons do you have to guarantee calling?” a social media user reacted to Ruto’s statement.
Local reports indicate that late Friday evening the acting military government gave Ex-Nigerien minister of finance, Mamadou Diop, 48 hours to account for missing public funds or face death by firing squad.
“Below is the Finance Minister of Niger weeping after being told to choose death by firing squad or account for the billion dollars spent under his watch. Nigeria, when shall a “redeemer” come to save us like this? One Nigerian Twitter user said.
Another one, “a Minister of Finance in Niger Republic has been given 48 hours by the Coup leaders to account for all the monies stolen from the people or face death by firing squad I wish Kenya held leaders accountable this way.”
“Niger Finance Minister dey cry? 48 hours is even too much. When he was looting tears were nowhere near him.”
People in Niger have also taken to the streets with many videos showing some beating and throwing rocks at politicians of were a part of President Bazoum’s government.
