RSF Calls for Release of Detained Niger Journalist

Press freedom organisation, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called on the Niger authorities to “immediately” release a journalist who was arrested two days ago without reason. The watchdog group also urged the authorities to reveal the journalist’s whereabouts and allow her access to legal representation.

Journalist Samira Sabou was reportedly arrested on September 30 at her home in Niamey and her family has not heard from her since. According to media reports, the reason for her arrest is still unknown.

This is not the first time Sabou has experienced legal trouble for her work. She was previously arrested in June 2020 and charged with defamation after publishing articles about the alleged over-invoicing of military equipment purchases. However, she was later acquitted.

The recent arrest of Sabou, who is the editor of a national news agency, has been linked to a complaint filed by Sani Mahamadou Issoufou, son and former deputy chief of staff of former president Mahamadou Issoufou (2011-2021).

Niger has been under military rule for over two months, following a coup d’état that ousted the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. Press freedom is still a major concern in the country, and the arrest of Sabou raises further concerns about the state of media freedom in Niger. RSF has called on the authorities to release Sabou immediately and ensure her right to a fair trial.