Niger’s Defense Minister, Lt. Gen. Salifou Mody, has made a controversial claim, stating that the country’s security was under the control of foreign forces prior to the military coup in July 2023.
In an interview with state television, Mody asserted that the pre-coup security apparatus was “disorganized” and “convenient” for foreign forces, particularly French forces.
He alleged that these forces exerted undue influence and meddled in matters beyond their authority.
Since the coup, the military junta has severed ties with France, cutting diplomatic relations and ending military cooperation.
Mody claimed that Niger’s security has “improved significantly” since the coup, despite facing sanctions and embargoes from regional and Western allies.
The junta has forged closer ties with other military-led governments in the region, forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) alongside Burkina Faso and Mali.
This alliance aims to enhance regional security cooperation and counter the influence of Western powers.
The minister’s statements are likely to further escalate tensions with former colonial power France and deepen the rift between the junta and the international community.