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Media watchdog calls for dialogue

    ABIDJAN

    The Reseau des journalistes pour les droits de l'homme (RJDH - Journalists' Network for Human Rights) has urged Niger's authorities to reopen the Abdou Moumouni University in the capital, Niamey, and free 15 students jailed following violence on campus between protesting students and security forces.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, RJDH condemned the use of violence against the protesters, the arbitrary detention of students in a prison in Kollo, 25 km south of the capital, Niamey, and the beating by police of journalists covering the protests. The organisation also denounced a proposal by the government to privatise the university as a means of solving the current crisis. RJDH has called on civilians to press the government to negotiate with the students and respect their right to education.

    Students began pressing for better living conditions on campus early last month. The campus has remained closed since 22 February, a day after violent clashes broke out there.

    This article was produced by IRIN News while it was part of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Please send queries on copyright or liability to the UN. For more information: https://shop.un.org/rights-permissions

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