In the aftermath of Niger’s recent coup, West African leaders have issued a stern warning to the junta, threatening military action if their demands are not met within a week. The coup resulted in the capture of President Mohamed Bazoum, prompting the regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to demand his reinstatement and the restoration of constitutional order.
The ECOWAS leaders held crisis talks in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, to discuss the escalating situation, which comes on the heels of previous army takeovers in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso. The bloc emphasized its “zero tolerance” for coups and announced its readiness to take decisive measures, including military intervention, to enforce constitutional governance.
The United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel expressed concern over the situation, highlighting Niger’s vital role in the fight against terrorism. Dr. Leonardo Santos Simao, the Special Representative and Head of the UN Office, warned that any instability in Niger could potentially provide an opportunity for terrorists to expand their activities in the region.
Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno visited Niamey to engage with the junta, becoming the first foreign leader to do so since the coup. The outcome of his discussions with the junta deputy leader, Gen Salifou Mody, and the self-declared ruler, Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, remains uncertain.
In response to the coup, West African leaders have imposed a no-fly zone over Niger for all commercial flights, closed all land borders, and imposed financial sanctions against the junta. They are determined to prevent any further destabilization and possible external interference.
The situation has raised concerns about Niger’s potential shift towards Russia, similar to the trend observed in Burkina Faso and Mali following their respective coups. Ousted President Mohamed Bazoum had previously collaborated closely with regional and Western nations in combating militant Islamists.
Outside the French embassy in Niamey, hundreds of coup supporters staged protests, expressing pro-Russian sentiments and setting fire to the embassy compound. France, which has been actively involved in the region’s security matters, vowed to protect its interests in Niger and respond resolutely to any attacks.
The coup has faced widespread international condemnation, with Western nations suspending development aid and budgetary support to Niger. In contrast, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, reportedly hailed the coup as a victory for the people of Niger against their colonizers.
As the situation continues to unfold, the region braces for possible military intervention by ECOWAS if the junta refuses to comply with the demands to reinstate President Bazoum and restore constitutional order. The stability of Niger remains critical in the fight against terrorism and the broader regional security landscape.