ECOWAS gives Niger’s military one week to reinstate Bazoum as president

In a resolute move to address the unfolding situation in Niger Republic, members of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government convened for an extraordinary meeting at the State House, Abuja, on Sunday, July 30.

Telescope.ng reports that during this crucial gathering, a unanimous decision was reached, issuing a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerien military to restore constitutional order and reinstate President Muhammed Bazoum, the legitimate leader of the landlocked state.

Recognizing President Bazoum as the rightfully elected President, the bloc also imposed stringent measures, including land and border closures and the suspension of all commercial flights between Niger and ECOWAS member states.

It added that the collective action aims to exert economic pressure on the military junta and uphold the principles of democratic governance.

Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the bloc is prepared to take all necessary measures to restore constitutional order in Niger, even if it involves the use of force.

He said an emergency meeting of all Chiefs of Defense Staff from ECOWAS member states will be convened to strategize on effective ways to implement a potential military operation to reinstate President Bazoum.

As part of the economic sanctions, ECOWAS has approved the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between its member states and Niger.

The assets of the Republic of Niger in Aqua Central Bank and those of the Niger State and its enterprises and parastatals in commercial banks will be frozen, adding that all financial assistance and transactions with financial institutions, particularly EBID, will be suspended.

The recent coup in Niger led to the appointment of General Abdourahamane Tchiani as the nation’s new leader by the members of Niger’s Presidential Guard.

Tchiani attributed the coup to the deteriorating security situation linked to jihadist violence. The military has also issued a stern warning against foreign military intervention, asserting that such actions may lead to the massacre of the Nigerien population and chaos.

The ECOWAS leaders’ united front sends a clear message to the Nigerien military that the sub-region stands firmly in support of democracy and will not tolerate any actions that undermine the constitutional order.

The ultimatum and economic sanctions aim to create the necessary pressure to restore peace, stability, and democratic governance in Niger.