Nigers Military Rulers Order General Mobilization Against Armed Groups

Niger’s Military Rulers Expand Emergency Powers

A general mobilisation has been approved by Niger’s military rulers, allowing for the requisition of people and goods in an effort to combat armed groups across the country. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting on Friday and marks a significant escalation by the military government.

According to a statement issued late on Saturday, the measures aim to “preserve the integrity of the national territory” and “protect the population”. The authorities have warned that citizens may be required to respond immediately to any call-up or recall order, and to submit to requisition without delay.

The decision follows a period of ongoing conflict in Niger, which has been embroiled in deadly armed violence for over a decade. The country has faced attacks by groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the ISIL (ISIS) group, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

The mobilisation order comes five years after Niger expanded its armed forces and raised the retirement age for senior officers. The military government has also urged citizens to make financial contributions to a fund supporting military spending and agricultural projects.

Niger’s rulers have previously ordered French and United States troops to withdraw from the country, and have since deepened security cooperation with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso. The three Sahel states have formed a joint force of 5,000 troops, presenting it as a regional response to armed groups.

Source: Al Jazeera