Niamey’s judicial authorities have escalated their confrontation with a prominent lawyer, seeking a five-year prison sentence against Abdourahamane Lirwana for his social media activity. The case, which has drawn significant attention, underscores the growing tensions between legal professionals and the state over online expression.
Prosecution demands harsh penalty
During a hearing on Tuesday, October 6, at the Tribunal de grande instance hors classe in Niamey, the public prosecutor requested five years of imprisonment and a fine of five million CFA francs against Lirwana. The lawyer has been in detention for two weeks under a committal order.
Online posts at the center of the charges
The prosecution’s case hinges on content Lirwana published on social media. Authorities accuse him of “disseminating data likely to disturb public order,” a charge that carries severe penalties under Niger’s cybercrime legislation.
Defense challenges court’s impartiality
The proceedings were marked by procedural tensions. Just 24 hours before the trial began, Lirwana’s legal team filed a request with the Court of State to have the case transferred, arguing that the Niamey court could not guarantee a fair trial. The higher court rejected the motion, keeping the case in the capital.
Silent protest in the courtroom
In response, the defense team decided to boycott the proceedings, refusing to present any arguments. Following their instructions, Lirwana remained silent when questioned by the presiding judge and the prosecutor.
Despite the defense’s absence, the court proceeded, closing the hearings and deferring its verdict. The final ruling, now eagerly awaited by judicial observers and civil society, will determine Lirwana’s fate amid heightened scrutiny of online speech in Niger.