ECOWAS Responds to Coup in Niger with Sanctions and Demands for Restoration of Constitutional Order
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has demanded the full restoration of constitutional order in Niger following the coup in the country. If the demands are not met within a week, ECOWAS threatened to use force to restore order. The group also imposed immediate sanctions on Niger, including the closure of land and air borders, establishment of a no-fly zone, and suspension of commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS countries and Niger.
ECOWAS called for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate Head of State and Government of Niger. The leaders rejected any purported resignation by President Bazoum and declared him the only recognized and elected President by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community.
The leaders condemned the attempted overthrow of constitutional order and the illegal detention of President Bazoum and his family. They considered the detention as a hostage situation. ECOWAS demanded the restoration of constitutional order within one week, warning that measures, including the use of force, may be taken if the demands are not met.
In response to the coup attempt, ECOWAS imposed travel bans and asset freezes on military officials involved and their family members. Sanctions also included freezing the assets of the Republic of Niger in the ECOWAS Central Bank and suspending all financial assistance and transactions with financial institutions within ECOWAS.
Niger’s military leaders warned against any armed intervention in the country before the ECOWAS summit in Nigeria. They urged citizens in the capital to protest against ECOWAS and show support for the new military leaders.
Opinion:
The response of ECOWAS to the coup in Niger shows the organization’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and stability in the region. The imposition of sanctions and demands for the restoration of constitutional order send a strong message against military interventions. However, the situation remains complex, and peaceful resolutions must be sought to prevent further escalation of tensions. Regional and international cooperation is crucial in ensuring a peaceful transition of power and the return to democratic governance in Niger. The organization warns of the possibility of using force to restore order if the demands are not met. Regional and international cooperation is emphasized to ensure stability in the region.