Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called on the Niger authorities to immediately release journalist Samira Sabou, who was arrested two days ago under unknown circumstances. The international press freedom organization expressed concern over her arrest and demanded transparency from the Niger authorities regarding her whereabouts.
Since her arrest at her home in Niamey on 30 September, Sabou’s family has had no information on her well-being. RSF has urged the Niger authorities to disclose the location where she is being held and provide her with access to legal representation. The organization stressed the importance of her prompt release.
Details surrounding Sabou’s arrest remain unclear. According to Aïr Info, a Nigerien media outlet, she was detained at approximately 17:30 local time (16:30 GMT) in Niamey. The reason for her arrest has yet to be revealed.
This is not the first time Sabou has faced legal trouble. In June 2020, she was imprisoned and faced defamation charges related to her investigations into alleged over-invoicing of military equipment purchases. However, she was subsequently acquitted.
The current arrest follows a complaint filed by Sani Mahamadou Issoufou, the son and former deputy chief of staff of former President Mahamadou Issoufou, who ruled the country from 2011 to 2021. The specific grounds for the complaint have not been disclosed.
It is worth noting that Niger has been under military rule for over two months after a coup d’état dethroned the elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The military regime took over power and has faced criticism from the international community for its suppression of press freedom and civil liberties.
Press freedom organizations have expressed deep concern over the deteriorating media landscape in Niger. With Sabou’s arrest, the authorities’ commitment to upholding freedom of the press is under scrutiny. RSF, along with other international bodies, is closely monitoring the situation and advocating for Sabou’s immediate release.
Journalists play a crucial role in any democratic society by providing reliable information and holding those in power accountable. It is vital that journalists are able to carry out their work without fear of intimidation, harassment, or arrest. The safeguarding of press freedom is integral to the development of a democratic and transparent nation.
In light of this latest incident, RSF’s call for the immediate release of Samira Sabou and the provision of legal counsel is a clear message to the Niger authorities to uphold their democratic values and respect the fundamental rights of journalists. The international community continues to await further information on Sabou’s case and calls for a swift resolution to this concerning situation.
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