Niger: Six Month-Long Arbitrary Detention of Human Rights Defender Moussa Tiangari Must End

Nairobi – Immediate Release of Peace Activist Needed

Niger's authorities must release civil society activist Moussa Tiangari. Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, FIDH, and OMCT demand an end to using terrorism charges to silence dissent.

Tiangari was arrested on December 3, 2024, at his home in Niamey. On January 3, 2025, he faced serious charges in court. These include "criminal conspiracy with a terrorist enterprise" and "plotting against the state." If convicted of plotting with enemy powers, he could face the death penalty.

He is currently held in Filingué prison, about 170 kilometers from Niamey. Since his arrest, he has not been interviewed by a judge regarding the charges.

"Moussa Tiangari is detained for exercising his human rights," said Marceau Sivieude from Amnesty International. "We urge authorities to release him and drop all charges."

Three weeks before his arrest, Tiangari criticized the interior minister's decision to revoke NGO licenses. He also opposed a new terrorism database that threatens human rights in Niger. Under recent laws, he risks losing his Nigerien nationality due to these terrorism charges.

Niger's penal code allows up to four years of preventive detention for such charges. The organizations involved confirm that none of the charges relate to internationally recognized offenses.

"Tiangari's arrest reflects a trend of repression by Nigerien authorities," said Drissa Traoré from FIDH. "They target anyone who criticizes them."

Ilaria Allegrozzi from Human Rights Watch noted that Tiangari’s detention sends a chilling message to critics of Niger’s government.

Isidore Ngueuleu from OMCT called Tiangari's arrest counterproductive and urged for his release. He emphasized that Tiangari represents the people's call for democracy and independence.

Background Information

Moussa Tiangari is 55 years old and leads Citizens Alternative Spaces (AEC). On December 3, armed men arrested him at home around 7:30 p.m., taking his phone and laptop. His whereabouts were unknown for two days until found at a counter-terrorism unit in Niamey.

In March and May 2025, courts rejected motions by Tiangari’s lawyers to dismiss the case or change jurisdiction. His lawyers have appealed these decisions.

Amnesty International and other organizations continue to call for Tiangari’s immediate release. Supporters have taken action on his behalf since his arrest.

In July 2024, several organizations expressed concern over repression against opposition voices since the military coup in July 2023. A report released in March 2025 documented this crackdown on dissenting voices in Niger.