NIGERIA/NIGER: The Ecowas group of West African nations will convene in Abuja to address the Niger coup as the military junta in Niamey refuses to step down. The bloc had warned that this action might prompt military intervention, as coup leaders shut off Niger’s airspace just before the deadline. The Economic Community of West African States will convene to address the coup.
Nigerien airspace has been closed due to increasing intervention threats, according to a junta official. The spokesman claimed military pre-deployment in central Africa before an operation but provided no further information. Niger’s armed forces and defence forces are ready to defend territory, and coup leaders warned of an energetic response to any attempt to violate airspace.
Ecowas defence leaders have decided on a military action plan if the deadline for the release and reinstatement of ousted president Mohamed Bazoum is not met by Sunday.
The West African bloc Ecowas will discuss Niger at an emergency session on Thursday. Burkina Faso and Mali, which have juntas in power, have pledged to defend Niger if needed while supporting the coup leaders. A military plane from Burkina Faso landed in Niger, and the Malian army sent a mission to express solidarity.
Antonio Tajani, Italian foreign minister, suggested that Ecowas extend the time limit for rehiring Bazoum. He hoped the Ecowas ultimatum, which expired last night, would be prolonged. Around 30,000 junta sympathisers had earlier come to the capital’s stadium in Niamey to applaud the decision not to stand down by Sunday. Niger is crucial for the US, Europe, China, and Russia due to its wealth in uranium and oil.
Bazoum, a democratically elected ally against Islamist militants, is under house arrest and urging the global community to restore constitutional order. France’s foreign ministry warns against entering Niger, citing the junta’s isolation and the cut of 70% of its electricity supply.
Paris has stopped its €482 million economic aid plan to Burkina Faso, citing support for the junta and Mali. A military cooperation deal with France in Niger was terminated. The bloc’s military threat has raised concerns about escalating hostilities in a region with a brutal Islamist insurgency.
Niger faces potential challenges from neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso juntas, who pledge support in case of conflict. France stopped providing budgetary and development support to Burkina Faso. Bazoum’s expelled administration believes a compromise is feasible. Italy reduced its military presence in Niger to protect Italian citizens in case of worsening conditions.
Also Read: West Africa Stands Firm against Niger Coup Leaders, French Embassy Subjected to Violence
