The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, condemned on Tuesday the use of violence and any attempt to seize power by force in Niger.
This followed armed clashes in Niamey on the night of August 28–29.
In a statement released on September 1, the Chairperson of the AU Commission said he had been following “with concern” the situation in the Nigerien capital, which was the scene of armed clashes and attacks on several sensitive sites.
The armed insurrection resulted in casualties and caused significant property damage, according to the pan-African organisation’s statement.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called on all Nigerien stakeholders to exercise restraint and work to preserve the safety of the population and the country’s stability.
The AU official also offered his condolences to the families of those who died and wished a speedy recovery to the wounded.
Beyond condemning the violence, the pan-African organisation reaffirms its commitment to peace, stability, and national cohesion in Niger. It also states that it stands ready to support efforts aimed at restoring constitutional order, in accordance with the relevant instruments of the African Union.
This statement comes as Niger, led by the authorities that emerged from the July 2023 coup, remains at the centre of political and security stability issues in the Sahel.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s statement also comes a few days after a series of high-level AU meetings focused on conflict prevention and resolution on the continent.
Finally, the AUC chairperson assured stakeholders that he will continue to closely monitor developments and reiterates the organisation’s readiness to contribute to efforts promoting peace and stability in Niger and throughout the Sahel.
TE/fss/as/APA