By Nnenna Ibeh
In a shocking turn of events, military officers in The Niger Republic announced the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum on national television on Thursday, July 27, plunging the West African nation into political uncertainty.
The coup leaders identifying themselves as the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CLSP), ousted the president and other high-ranking government officials in what appears to be a well-coordinated and swift operation.
Led by Col Maj Amadou Abdramane alongside other nine uniformed officers, the CLSP declared a state of emergency in Niger.
Also imposing a curfew across the country, they cited widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, and a lack of progress in addressing social issues as the main reasons behind their actions.
Abdramane says, "We, the defence and security forces... have decided to put an end to the regime you know.
"This follows the continuing deterioration of the security situation, and poor economic and social governance."
The African Union and ECOWAS react
Members of the international community closely watch the unfolding situation with concern, regional and global leaders have called for an immediate restoration of constitutional order and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
In addition, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have condemned the military takeover, warning of potential sanctions if civilian rule is not swiftly reinstated.
In a statement, the AU spokesperson, Moussa Mahamat, described the Military officers' action as 'acting in betrayal of their republican duty.'
Mahamat urged the neigbouring countries to join their voices in unanimous condemnation of the coup attempt and for the immediate and unconditional return of the felon soldiers to their barracks".
Niger, a landlocked country with a history of political instability, now faces a critical juncture as it grapples with the coup's aftermath.
The unfolding events in Niger will significantly affect the region's stability and security.