Djermakoye was taken ill, reportedly from the heat, at a 14 June 2009 rally in Niamey, protesting President Tandja's referendum proposal; he collapsed shortly before he was expected to address the protesters. Djermakoye, who was reported to have previously suffered from a heart condition, died at a Niamey hospital thirty minutes later. An official ceremony and military tribute for Djermakoye was held in Niamey on 15 June, with President Tandja in attendance. His funeral was also held in Dosso on the same day, amidst a large crowd of mourners.