On September 17, 2026, Niger's President Abdourahamane Tiani, a general in the army, signed a decree temporarily revoking the citizenship of five individuals. This decision was made based on an ordinance adopted in 2024 that targets persons or entities suspected of involvement in acts that harm the country's strategic or fundamental interests. The decree names the individuals as Amadou dit Ange Barou Chekaraou, Ouhoumoudou Mahamadou, Oumarou Moussa Ibrahim, Ousmane Abdoul Moumouni, and Boubacar Seyni Souley.
The five individuals, whose ages range from 42 to 72, hail from different regions of Niger, including Tahoua, Zinder, and Niamey. According to a communiqué from the Secretariat General of the Government, they are accused of various offenses, including the dissemination of data likely to disrupt public order, intelligence with foreign powers, and defamation through electronic communication. These allegations suggest that the individuals may have engaged in activities that threaten national security and stability.
The ordinance that serves as the basis for the decree was adopted on August 27, 2024, and modified on October 7, 2024. It established a file that lists individuals, groups, or entities involved in terrorist acts or other crimes that could harm the nation's strategic interests or disturb public peace and security. The ordinance also outlines the procedures for inclusion and removal from this file, as well as the consequences of being listed.
The Nigerien government claims that the five individuals were involved in a range of activities that undermine national defense and social cohesion. These alleged activities include participation in an enterprise aimed at demoralizing the army and the nation, as well as acts that threaten the state's safety and security. The government's decision to revoke their citizenship is seen as a measure to protect national interests and maintain public order.
The decree signed by President Tiani is part of a broader effort to address security concerns in Niger. The country has faced various challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings, which have affected its stability and development. By taking action against individuals suspected of involvement in acts against national interests, the government aims to safeguard the country's security and protect its citizens.
The revocation of citizenship is a significant measure that can have far-reaching consequences for the individuals concerned. It may affect their residency rights, access to public services, and overall status in the country. The decision also serves as a warning to others who may be engaged in similar activities that threaten national security and stability.
The Nigerien government's decision to revoke the citizenship of the five individuals has been reported by various sources, including Nigerdiaspora, a media outlet that covers news and events in Niger. The move is seen as part of the government's efforts to maintain national security and protect its interests.
Key points
- Five individuals have had their Nigerien citizenship revoked due to alleged involvement in acts against national interests.
- The decision was made based on an ordinance adopted in 2024 that targets persons or entities suspected of involvement in acts that harm the country's strategic or fundamental interests.
- The individuals concerned face various allegations, including dissemination of data likely to disrupt public order, intelligence with foreign powers, and defamation through electronic communication.
