West African leaders on Sunday issued a ultimatum to the military junta in Niger, granting them a one-week deadline to relinquish power.
They reiterate that they are set to take necessary actions, including the potential ‘use of force,’ if the junta fails to comply. Additionally, the leaders imposed immediate financial sanctions as a response to the situation.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), comprising 15 nations, has called for the ‘immediate release and reinstatement’ of Niger’s democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum. He has been in military custody since Wednesday.
‘In the event the authorities’ demands are not met within one week (ECOWAS will) take all measures necessary to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. Such measures may include the use of force,’ the bloc said in a joint statement following its emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
‘For this effect, the chiefs of defence staff of ECOWAS are to meet immediately.’
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In response to the situation in Niger, ECOWAS has declared the “suspension of all commercial and financial transactions” between its member states and Niger, including the cessation of energy transactions, given the country’s involvement in the bloc.
To address the attempted coup, ECOWAS also opted to freeze Niger’s assets in ECOWAS central and commercial banks, coupled with the implementation of a ‘travel ban and asset freeze’ directed at the military officials responsible.
‘The same applies to their family members and the civilians who accept to participate in any institutions or government established by these military officials,’ The statement read out by the Nigerian president and ECOWAS chairman Bola Tinubu, said.
The situation in Niger has captured the attention and concern of the entire West African region, as it symbolises a critical test for democracy and stability in the area.
ECOWAS’ proactive approach accentuates its determination to protect democratic institutions and uphold the will of the people in member states.