Ahead of an emergency summit convened by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address the crisis in Niger, the military junta has made a significant announcement. The junta stated that the purpose of this meeting is to endorse a plan for a forceful intervention in Niger's capital, Niamey. They intend to carry out a military operation in cooperation with certain Western nations and African countries that are not part of ECOWAS.
The statement was delivered on national television by Amadou Abdramane, a member of the junta that recently ousted the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum, asserting their takeover of power.
To discuss the military coup in Niger, leaders from the West African nations are set to gather in Abuja, Nigeria's capital, on Sunday. The coup in Niger is the latest development adding to the instability in the Sahel region.
ECOWAS, comprising 15 member states including Niger, may contemplate imposing sanctions on the junta as a response to their actions. Meanwhile, both France, the former colonial ruler, and the European Union have already taken measures to suspend security cooperation and financial aid to Niger.
It's worth mentioning that last year, ECOWAS leaders had reached an agreement to establish a regional security force aimed at combating jihadist groups and thwarting military coups. However, specific details on the workings and funding of this force remain unclear, with decisions expected to be made by ECOWAS defense ministers later this year.
As the situation in Niger continues to unfold, the international community closely observes the developments in the region.
Source: (AFP)
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