A video released by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate, shows Alassane Souleymane, a former director of Niger’s Office of Food Products (OPVN), who was kidnapped in the western region of the country on January 11th.
The video, dated February 12th, marks the first public appearance of Souleymane since his abduction in Torodi, a town located approximately 60 kilometers west of the capital, Niamey. In the brief video, Souleymane appeals to Nigerien authorities to intervene for his release, stating that he is being treated well.
JNIM, which operates primarily in the volatile border region with Burkina Faso, has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks and kidnappings in recent years.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Nigerien authorities regarding the video or the ongoing efforts to secure Souleymane’s release.
AC/sf/lb/abj/APA