Legal Team Says Mohamed Bazoum Is Being Arbitrarily Detained Without Trial
Lawyers representing Niger’s former president, Mohamed Bazoum, have renewed calls for his immediate release, three years after he was removed from office in a military coup and placed under detention.
Bazoum, who was democratically elected in 2021, has remained in custody alongside his wife, Hadiza, since soldiers overthrew his government in July 2023. The couple has been confined to a section of the presidential palace in the capital, Niamey.
An international team of lawyers representing the former leader says his continued detention is unlawful and violates his fundamental rights.
Lawyers Say No Charges Have Been Formally Filed
Speaking on behalf of Bazoum’s legal team, West African lawyers and American human rights attorney Reed Brody said the former president and his wife have never been brought before a judge.
According to the legal team, the couple has not been informed of any official legal proceedings or charges despite being held for three years.
The lawyers argue that the prolonged detention amounts to arbitrary imprisonment and are urging Niger’s military authorities to release them immediately.
Military Promised Trial But No Case Has Begun
Following the 2023 coup, Niger’s ruling military government, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, announced plans to prosecute Bazoum.
The junta accused the former president of treason and plotting against the security and authority of the state.
However, despite those accusations, no public trial has been opened, and authorities have yet to announce any formal court proceedings against him.
The absence of legal action has continued to draw criticism from international observers and human rights organizations.
Limited Contact With Family and Outside World
Bazoum’s lawyers also say the former president and his wife have been kept in near-total isolation during their detention.
According to the legal team, the couple has been denied visits from family members for the past three years and has had very limited contact with the outside world.
The restrictions have raised concerns among international human rights groups, who argue that the conditions of their detention violate international legal standards.
International Pressure Continues to Mount
Several international organizations and foreign leaders have repeatedly called on Niger’s military government to release Bazoum.
The European Union, United Nations experts, and other global leaders have urged the junta to respect the rule of law and restore the former president’s rights.
Although Bazoum’s presidential term officially ended in April 2026, he has consistently refused to resign, maintaining that he remains Niger’s legitimate elected leader.
Crackdown Under Military Rule
Since taking power, Niger’s military authorities have faced growing criticism over their treatment of political opponents and civil society.
Human rights groups say journalists, activists and members of civil society have been arrested or detained as the junta tightens its grip on power.
The renewed appeal by Bazoum’s lawyers comes as concerns continue to grow over political freedoms, judicial independence and human rights under Niger’s military-led government.
