President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has strongly condemned the treatment of Niger’s former President, Mohammed Bazoum, following his ousting in a military coup on July 26, 2023. Since the coup, Bazoum, who was democratically elected, has been detained by the military junta, a situation that has drawn widespread international criticism.
In an interview with France 24 on Friday, October 4, President Akufo-Addo expressed his disapproval of the situation, describing Bazoum’s detention as entirely unacceptable. “It is completely unacceptable that a democratically elected leader like Bazoum should be treated in the manner in which he’s been treated,” he stated firmly.
Akufo-Addo emphasized the need for continued advocacy for Bazoum’s release, reiterating the commitment of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to securing his freedom. He stressed that the unconditional release of the former president remains a top priority.
“We have to continue to insist on his freedom. As far as I am concerned, his unconditional freedom is still very much on the table, and we will continue to agitate for it and be part of the ECOWAS demand that he be freed as soon as possible,” President Akufo-Addo declared.
The Ghanaian leader’s remarks underscore the broader efforts of ECOWAS to restore democratic order in Niger and ensure the safety and dignity of President Bazoum.
