Authorities in Niger Shut Down Internet Access across the Country

The authorities responded by shutting down Internet access in Niamey and Zinder.

Niger is the world’s poorest nation according to the United Nations’ development rankings for 189 countries. The Sahelian country’s already fragile democracy due to the various violent incidents and violations of human rights is left at the brink of collapse when the government shut down internet access there.

A number of parties have protested against the government’s decision. One of them is Amnesty International.

“Restraint is needed from all parties in an already tense situation. We call on authorities in Niger to investigate the deaths, prosecute those responsible in fair trials, and also to take all necessary measures to enable people to exercise their right to peaceful protest,” said Ousmane Diallo, Amnesty International West Africa researcher.

“Journalists must be able to do their work, and the population has a right to be informed. All reasonable measures must be taken to protect media professionals and the freedom of expression in Niger.”