Niger Authorities Re-Arrest Journalists After Reporting on Intelligence Breach
Journalists Detained Over Coverage of Niger-Russia Security Contract Leak
Three journalists from Sahara FM—Hamid Mahmoud (acting editor-in-chief), Mahaman Sani (news presenter), and Massaouda Jaharou—were arrested on May 7 after reporting on a leaked intelligence contract between Niger and Russia. Ibrahim Manzo Diallo, head of Air Infor Media (Sahara FM’s parent company), confirmed the arrests were directly linked to their coverage of the sensitive security matter.
Brief Release Followed by Second Arrest
While the journalists were temporarily released by a judge after appearing in court, authorities re-arrested all three on May 10 in what appears to be an escalating crackdown on press freedom.
Systematic Media Suppression Under Military Rule
Since the 2023 military coup, Niger’s junta has increasingly targeted journalists covering security matters. Multiple reporters have faced detention for reporting on military affairs, revealing a concerning pattern of media suppression over the past two years.
International Condemnation of Press Freedom Violations
IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger strongly condemned Niger’s actions: “The systematic suppression of media freedom constitutes a blatant violation of fundamental human rights. Niger’s military government must cease intimidating journalists and allow citizens access to vital information.” The International Federation of Journalists has demanded the immediate release of the detained reporters.
Contact Information
For more information, contact:
IFJ Africa Office
1st Floor, Maison de la Presse
5 Rue X Corniche, Medina
BP 64257, Dakar, Senegal
Tel: +221-33 867 95 86/87
Fax: +221-33 827 02