ECOWAS delegation seeks diplomatic solution with Niger’s coup leaders

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Former Nigerian military leader Abdulsalami Abubakar is leading the delegation

AMID concerns over the coup in Niger, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has sent a delegation to the country to engage in negotiations with the military officers who seized power last week. The delegation, led by former Nigerian military leader Abdulsalami Abubakar, aims to find a diplomatic solution before considering any military intervention.

ECOWAS has taken a tough stance on the coup in Niger, imposing sanctions on the nation and threatening to authorise the use of force if the coup leaders fail to reinstate elected President Mohamed Bazoum within a week from last Sunday. The regional bloc has been steadfast in its commitment to democracy and intolerance for unconstitutional changes of government, as evidenced by its response to previous military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, as well as an attempted coup in Guinea-Bissau.

General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence and Chairman of the ECOWAS Defence Chiefs, acknowledged the complexity of restoring democratic governance in Niger but stressed that the decisions made during this critical time will convey the commitment to democracy and regional stability. ‘Our decisions will send a strong message about our commitment to democracy, our intolerance for unconstitutional changes of government, and our dedication to regional stability,’ he said.

The coup in Niger has raised concerns among foreign powers due to the country’s strategic importance as a key ally in the fight against Islamist insurgents. France and Italy have started evacuating European citizens from Niger as a precautionary measure. France, the United States, Germany, and Italy have troops in Niger for counterinsurgency and training missions to combat groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. However, there have been no announcements of troop withdrawals at this time.

Niger’s significance as the world’s seventh-largest producer of uranium, a vital resource for nuclear energy and cancer treatment, adds further complexity to the situation. The European Union has stated that it possesses sufficient uranium inventories to mitigate any short-term supply risks.

The international community is closely monitoring the developments in Niger, hoping for a peaceful resolution that upholds democratic principles and ensures stability in the region.