ECOWAS military chiefs set date for Niger intervention

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has established a tentative date for potential military intervention in Niger to reinstate constitutional order if diplomatic efforts prove ineffective.

At the conclusion of a gathering of West African military leaders in Accra on Friday, Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, declared that a consensus had been reached regarding the necessary measures for the intervention.

“Collectively, member states of ECOWAS present at today’s assembly have committed resources, equipment, and personnel for this operation. We stand ready to initiate action upon receiving the directive,” Musah stated.

ECOWAS indicates that a majority of its 15 member nations are prepared to contribute to the collaborative effort, except for those under military rule – namely Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea – and Cape Verde.

The specific date for this action has also been determined, as confirmed by Musah. He emphasized that, while all possibilities, including mediation and sanctions, remain under consideration, ECOWAS is resolute in its aim to reinstate constitutional order in Niger without undue delay.

He underscored that ECOWAS is executing its responsibilities based on its guiding principles and not due to external influence.

“Our priority is the restoration of constitutional normalcy. The coup in Niger represents a transgression too significant for the region. We are unequivocally halting this course of action and setting a definitive boundary,” Musah asserted.

Furthermore, the United Nations (UN) has called upon the military authorities in Niger to swiftly reinstate constitutional order.

A statement released by Ravina Shamdasani, Spokeswoman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed concern for the populace, who have faced substantial hardships. The statement emphasized the urgency of releasing the detained leaders and reinstating democracy, asserting that the leaders chosen through the electoral process must not be removed by force.

Previously, Niger’s military leadership expressed intent to charge Bazoum with “high treason” and indicated openness to diplomatic negotiations to address the conflict in Niger.

On July 30, ECOWAS issued a one-week ultimatum to Niger’s military authorities, urging the restoration of Bazoum to power, under the threat of potential military intervention. However, the deadline elapsed without any action taken.