Ousted Niger President reveals harsh living reality, eats dry rice in isolation
Former President of Niger Republic, Mohamed Bazoum, shares the difficulties he faces in isolation, including being forced to eat dry rice, after being ousted from office.
Following his removal from power by the military and the suspension of the constitution on July 26, 2023, President Bazoum has found himself in a state of isolation and deprivation. In a series of text messages to a friend, he revealed the harsh reality he is living in.
READ ALSO: President Bazoum overthrown by soldiers in Niger Republic
According to CNN, he expressed, “I have been deprived of all human contact since Friday, with no one supplying me food or medicine.”
The situation worsened for Bazoum as he explained that he has been without electricity for a week, a consequence of Nigeria cutting off power in response to the coup.
The perishable food he was initially provided with has gone bad, leaving him with no other option but to subsist on dry pasta and rice. It is a stark portrayal of the challenges he now faces.
Despite his isolation, Bazoum has managed to maintain contact with the outside world. Although he did not have the opportunity to speak with acting US Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland during her visit to Niamey on Monday, he did have a conversation with Secretary of State Antony Blinken via phone. This demonstrates his determination to stay connected and seek support.
It is worth noting that Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi, the 14th Emir of Kano, played a role in opening a window for negotiation by meeting with the coup leaders. Sources indicate that Sanusi, acting in a personal capacity, briefed President Bola Tinubu prior to his trip.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will convene another meeting in Abuja on Thursday to address the ongoing coup situation. These discussions will aim to find a resolution and restore stability in Niger.