The Nigerien Foreign Ministry has announced that French Ambassador to Niger Sylvain Itte no longer enjoys diplomatic immunity, and that the police have been instructed to proceed with his expulsion, Nigerien media reported on Thursday.
On Tuesday, the Nigerien Foreign Ministry informed the French diplomatic mission that Itte's diplomatic documents had been revoked and his and his family's visas canceled, Nigerien news agency ANP reported.
"The person concerned no longer enjoys the privileges and immunities associated with his status as a member of the embassy's diplomatic staff [...] The police services have been instructed to proceed with his expulsion," the foreign ministry was quoted as saying by ANP.
In addition, according to a statement issued by the Niger Ministry of Foreign Affairs and posted on social networks, "the diplomatic cards and visas of the person concerned and members of his family have been cancelled".
Apart from that, on Wednesday, it was reported that Niger's National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland announced the annulment of all security and military agreements with France. The CNSP also demanded the complete withdrawal of French troops from the West African country by September 3.
Last Friday, Niger's foreign ministry withdrew Itte's accreditation and gave him 48 hours to leave the country. Despite pressure from the military, Paris said it had taken note of Niger's request but believed the rebels had no authority to make such decisions.
French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that the Ite would remain in Niger despite rebel demands. The French president also reiterated his support for any action, including diplomatic and military, that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) might take in response to the situation in Niger.
On July 26, Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted and detained by his own guard, led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani. France condemned the coup, while expressing support for "the legitimate government" of its former colony.
The coup leaders, on their part, halted gold and uranium exports to France, blocked French media and denounced several military pacts with Paris. In addition, they demanded in mid-August that French forces leave the country by early September.
Since the coup, mass rallies have taken place in Niger demanding the complete withdrawal of French troops from the West African country.