The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a strong stance against the recent coup attempt in Niger, calling for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate Head of State and Government of the Republic of Niger.
In a communique issued at the conclusion of the Extraordinary Summit on Socio-Political Situation in the Republic of Niger, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, conveyed the unanimous rejection of any purported resignation by President Bazoum. The leaders declared President Bazoum as the only recognized and elected President by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community.
The ECOWAS leaders expressed resolute condemnation of the attempted overthrow of constitutional order in Niger and denounced the illegal detention of President Bazoum, as well as members of his family and government.
In a strong show of solidarity and determination, the ECOWAS leaders announced that they would take all necessary measures to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger if the demands are not met within one week.
Hosting the Summit in his capacity as the Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria emphasized his rejection of the coup and interruption of constitutional order in Niger Republic.
In response to the coup attempt, the Summit announced immediate sanctions on Niger, including the closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger. Furthermore, a no-fly zone was established for all commercial flights to and from Niger.
To ensure effective communication and representation of ECOWAS’ demands, the Summit decided to appoint and dispatch a Special Representative to deliver the authority’s message.
Presidents and representatives from various ECOWAS member states attended the Summit to lend their support to the resolution. Among those present were Presidents Patrice Talon of Benin Republic, Alassane Ouattara of Cote d’Ivoire, Adama Barrow of The Gambia, Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, Embalo of Guinea Bissau, Macky Sall of Senegal, and Faure Gnassingbé of Togo. The Presidents of Cape Verde, Liberia, Niger, and Sierra Leone were also represented.
The ECOWAS leaders’ united front sends a clear message that any attempts to undermine democracy and constitutional order within the region will not be tolerated. They stand firmly in support of the rule of law and the restoration of elected leadership in the Republic of Niger.