West African leaders begin summit on Niger coup in Abuja

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is presently underway in the capital city of Abuja, aimed at addressing the pressing crisis in Niger. Spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman of ECOWAS, this gathering signifies the region’s resolute commitment to restoring stability in Niger following the recent upheaval.

President Tinubu, entrusted with the pivotal role of leading the regional organization, convened this crucial session in response to the escalating situation in Niger. Notably, this gathering comes on the heels of the expiration of the seven-day ultimatum set by ECOWAS for the reinstatement of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.

The junta had ignored the ultimatum, resulting in additional sanctions by ECOWAS.

The regional bloc had threatened possible military option; a move that was widely rejected, especially in Nigeria.

Currently, the following Heads of State are in Abuja:

1 President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone

2. President. Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco of Guinea Bissau

3. President Everiste Ndayishimiye of Burundi

4. President Alassane Ouattara of Cote d’Ivoire

5.President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritinia

6 .President Nana Akofo-Ado of Ghana

7. President Macky Sall of Senegal

8. President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic

Yet to arrive