Salem Bazoum, son of the ousted Niger president Mohamed Bazoum, was granted provisional release by a Niamey military tribunal on Monday.
The court document revealed that Salem Bazoum, who had been held with his parents since the coup on July 26, 2023, is expected to respond to justice when required.
While his parents remain in custody at the presidential residence, the 22-year-old has reportedly left Niamey for Lome, Togo, following a confirmed release deal mediated by Togo and Sierra Leone.
Niger has been under military rule since the overthrow of elected president Bazoum, drawing international condemnation.
The military ruler, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has outlined a transition period of up to three years for the return to civilian government. Togo, along with other West African states, has been involved in mediating with the Nigerien military regime.
Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey visited Niamey on Monday, meeting with Niger’s junta-appointed prime minister as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The new military regime has distanced itself from previous European partners, particularly France, aligning closer with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, both under military rule.
The withdrawal of French troops from Niger in December marked a shift in alliances.
Niger, like Burkina Faso and Mali, faces persistent jihadist violence, especially in the Tri-border area.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed strict economic and financial sanctions on Niamey after Bazoum’s ouster, contributing to rising food prices and shortages of basic items.
Togo and other countries have recently softened their stance towards the Nigerien authorities. Benin President Patrice Talon called for the swift re-establishment of relations with Niger, leading to the lifting of sanctions on imported goods transiting through the port of Cotonou.
However, Niger remains suspended from ECOWAS, with the release of Bazoum and his return to power considered essential for easing sanctions.
Former officials of the overthrown government, including former energy minister Ibrahim Yacoubou, have faced arrests and exile.