Supporters of Niger’s junta have been compelled to suspend a census aimed at enlisting volunteers for non-military roles in defence against potential intervention by West African forces, citing an overwhelming turnout of participants.
In the hours preceding the planned commencement of the event, thousands of predominantly young men converged outside a stadium in the capital city of Niamey. This pronounced demonstration of support for the junta underscores the significant backing it receives in specific quarters. The junta has remained steadfast despite international pressure to relinquish power following the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.
Younoussa Hima, co-organizer of the initiative titled “The Mobilisation of Young People for the Fatherland,” expressed astonishment at the turnout, conceding, “In all our calculations and our understandings, we never thought we could mobilize this number of people.” The unexpectedly high number of participants prompted the organisers to suspend the census.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the primary regional bloc in West Africa, announced on Friday that it had agreed on an undisclosed “D-Day” for a potential military intervention if diplomatic efforts prove ineffective. This potential escalation has the potential to further destabilize a region already grappling with conflict and poverty.
The Niamey recruitment drive was intended to compile a roster of civilians willing to offer their expertise in case of an ECOWAS attack, rather than recruiting for the military. Nevertheless, many of those present at the stadium displayed eagerness to contribute to the fight.
Blogger Tahirou Seydou Abdoul Nassirou expressed the sentiment of readiness among the youth, stating, “They called on the youth to respond to a possible attack on our soil. And we are ready for any attack.” The determination was palpable as young men expressed their commitment to the cause.
An ECOWAS delegation arrived in Niamey on Saturday to engage in discussions with the junta, underscoring ongoing attempts to find a peaceful resolution to the impasse.
Assessing the extent of junta support throughout Niger remains challenging, yet a significant number attended a previous rally at the stadium on August 11, applauding the coup leaders’ determination to stand up to the regional bloc.
Kader Haliou, aged 35, articulated that while patriotism was a driving force for those willing to support the junta, the allure also lay in the opportunity for many unemployed youth to gain recognition. “Most of the young people who have come are unemployed. Getting registered is a blessing for us given the idleness and lack of work,” Haliou remarked.
The aftermath of the coup and ensuing international sanctions has exacerbated Niger’s already precarious economy. It stands as one of the world’s least developed nations, with over 40% of its population living in extreme poverty, as per World Bank statistics.
