Nigerien Journalists Remanded Over Alleged Plot Against State Authority

Two journalists from Sahara FM, an independent radio station in Niger Republic, have been remanded in custody by a military court over serious allegations of conspiring against state authorities.

The reporters were arrested in early May in Agadez, central Niger, after Sahara FM aired reports hinting at the possible termination of security ties between Niger and Russia—a key ally of the current military junta that seized power in 2023.

According to Air Info, the media outlet’s owner, the journalists were transferred to Kollo prison, located about 50 kilometers south of the capital, Niamey, following a ruling issued on Friday. A third journalist who was also arrested was granted bail.

The detained journalists face charges of “undermining national defence” and “plotting against state authority,” raising serious concerns about the country’s commitment to press freedom.

Niger has come under increasing scrutiny from human rights groups and press freedom organizations, who accuse the ruling military government of clamping down on independent journalism since the 2023 coup.

The arrests have added to fears that the junta is silencing dissent and restricting media outlets that challenge its narratives or reveal politically sensitive information.