Tensions between Niger’s military leadership and the French Embassy in Niamey have escalated as the military has reportedly taken measures to sever essential services.
The Nigerien President of the National Support Committee for the CNSP, Elh Issa Hassoumi Boureima, called for the suspension of electricity, water, and food deliveries to the French Embassy. He also urged partners associated with French bases in Niger to comply with the directive and halt fuel, water, and electricity supplies to French diplomatic establishments.
“We ask Nigelec and SPEN (SEEN) to cut off water and electricity in the French Embassy, in the French consulates of Zinder and Niamey,” Boureima stated. He warned that any entities that continue to assist the French in supplying goods and services would be viewed as adversaries of the nation’s sovereignty.
The move underscores the heightened tensions between the military leadership and the French presence in the country, which has historical ties through various cooperation agreements. The suspension of critical services to the French Embassy reflects the seriousness of the situation and suggests strained diplomatic relations between Niger and France.