The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a decisive step to address the political turmoil in Niger Republic by ordering the deployment of its standby force to restore constitutional order.
This move comes after a defiant rejection by the Niger military junta of all attempts at dialogue and a continuous detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members.
The President of ECOWAS, Omar Alieu Touray, made this resolute declaration during a meeting held in Abuja on Thursday.
The announcement followed the unanimous agreement of ECOWAS member states, highlighting their commitment to upholding democratic principles within the region.
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In a statement released after the meeting, ECOWAS called upon the African Union (AU), partner countries, and international institutions to rally behind its resolution and support the efforts to restore stability to Niger Republic.
The resolution adopted by ECOWAS underlines its determination to resolve the crisis through peaceful means, emphasizing the need for the swift reinstatement of constitutional order.
The committee of the Chief of Defence Staff has been tasked with activating the ECOWAS standby force, mobilizing all its elements immediately.
The force’s deployment aims to bring an end to the ongoing political turmoil and ensure that the rule of law is upheld in Niger Republic.
The situation in Niger Republic has been closely monitored by regional and international actors since the military coup unfolded.
Despite diplomatic efforts to engage with the coup leaders, they have adamantly rejected all attempts at dialogue, escalating tensions and deepening concerns about the country’s future.
The continued detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members has only served to worsen the crisis, prompting ECOWAS to take decisive action.
