ECOWAS Gives Military Junta in Niger One-Week Ultimatum to Relinquish Power…

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) made a significant decision to impose a no-flight zone and financial sanctions in response to the escalating tensions caused by military actors attempting to seize power in Niger.

The urgent meeting held by ECOWAS leaders aimed to address the recent rise of the junta, which has led to significant unrest and poses a threat to political stability in the region.

The imposition of a no-flight zone is considered a crucial move to curb the junta’s influence and prevent potential allies from providing aerial support. The coup leaders fear that ECOWAS could launch an imminent military intervention in the capital of the Sahel country.

Besides the no-flight zone, ECOWAS leaders have also agreed on immediate financial sanctions against the coup and demanded that the junta relinquish power within a week. While not ruling out the use of force, the regional body stressed the importance of restoring peace and stability in Niger.

ECOWAS also affirmed its recognition of President Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate leader of Niger and called upon member states and the international community to uphold and respect this decision. President Bola Tinubu, who presided over the emergency meeting as the Chairman of ECOWAS, condemned the military coup, emphasizing that Africa rejects any interruption to constitutional order.

“Africa has come of age, we reject coup and interruption to constitutional order,” stated President Tinubu, receiving applause from leaders of the regional bloc. He underscored the responsibility of African leaders to foster stability, progress, and the wellbeing of their people, and vowed to stand by them in freedom and commitment to the rule of law rather than resorting to violence.

Late Wednesday, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the chief of Niger’s powerful presidential guard, took power in a military coup. This action has drawn condemnation from the United Nations, African Union, European Union, United States, and other world and regional leaders.

Tchiani, a 59-year-old military figure with a distinguished career, including leading the elite 700-member unit since 2011, declared himself leader on Friday after seizing President Mohamed Bazoum and confining him to the presidential palace during the takeover. The situation remains tense, with ECOWAS taking decisive measures to restore stability and uphold democratic norms in Niger.