In a dramatic turn of events, soldiers in Niger have announced a coup on national television, shaking the West African nation. The coup leaders declared the dissolution of the constitution,

suspension of all institutions, and the closure of national borders.

President Mohamed Bazoum was taken into custody by troops from the presidential guard early on Wednesday. In response to the unfolding crisis, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured President Bazoum of Washington's unwavering support, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres offered the full support of the United Nations.

President Bazoum is a crucial ally in the fight against Islamist militancy in West Africa, making the situation particularly sensitive for the international community. Neighboring countries, Mali and Burkina Faso, have experienced coups triggered by jihadist uprisings in recent years, leading to complex geopolitical implications.

The coup leaders, led by Col Maj Amadou Abdramane, cited the deteriorating security situation and poor governance as their motivation for taking action. All external partners were urged not to interfere, and a night curfew was imposed until further notice.

Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou has declared himself the head of state and called on all supporters of democracy to resist the coup attempt. President Bazoum's current whereabouts remain unclear, but he expressed determination on Twitter that the hard-won gains of the nation would be safeguarded with the support of Nigeriens who cherish democracy.

The West African economic bloc, Ecowas, condemned the attempted seizure of power, and Benin's President Patrice Talon arrived in Niger's capital, Niamey, on a mediation mission to restore constitutional order peacefully.

Niger, already grappling with two Islamist insurgencies in different regions, has a history of coup attempts and political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960.

The situation in Niger is being closely monitored by the international community, with concerns about the impact on regional security and stability. As events continue to unfold, the world awaits further developments and actions taken to resolve the crisis. Photo by Benhamayemohamed, Wikimedia commons.