Niger: Protestors call for arrest of former President Issoufou Mahamadou for treason

A group of demonstrators took to the streets Sunday November 5 in Niamey, capital of Niger, calling for the arrest of ex-President Issoufou Mahamadou that they accuse of treason, reports say.

The protestors hailing from various Civil society organizations held banners reading “Issoufou Mahamadou, traitor to the nation”.

Mahamadou, 71, led the country from April 2011 to April 2021. He left after his second term in office came to an end.

He was replaced by close aide Mohamed Bazoum who was ousted on July 26 by a junta still holding power.

The junta also charged Bazoum for treason for calling for foreign intervention following his removal.

Many Nigeriens have accused Mahamadou and Bazoum for serving the former colonial power France at the expense of their country.