African Union Suspends Niger Republic Following Coup; Diplomacy Urged to Solve Political Crisis”
The African Union (AU) Commission has imposed sanctions by suspending Niger Republic from the organization due to the recent military coup that ousted democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The suspension will remain in place until constitutional order is restored in the country. The AU also warned its member states to avoid actions that might legitimize the junta. The Peace and Security Council of the AU Commission condemned the coup and expressed solidarity with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its efforts to restore constitutional order through diplomatic means.
The AU’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding democratic principles and constitutional governance across the continent. The council rejected external interference in African peace and security affairs and discouraged the involvement of private military companies. The AU emphasized the importance of military forces in Niger adhering to constitutional principles and urged them to return to the barracks and submit to civilian authorities.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS envoy to Niger, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), presented the terms proposed by the military junta to the sub-region for resolving the political crisis in Niger. Abubakar’s efforts are part of ECOWAS’ diplomatic approach to the situation. The former Nigerian military Head of State assured that diplomatic efforts are ongoing and expressed hope that a concrete solution will emerge.
It is essential that diplomatic efforts take precedence in resolving the political crisis in Niger. Military intervention could lead to severe consequences and instability, particularly considering the shared border and close ties between Niger and neighboring countries. The AU’s suspension of Niger and ECOWAS’ diplomatic engagement underscore the region’s commitment to resolving crises peacefully and upholding democratic values. As demonstrated by the caution voiced by Nigerian senators and former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai, military intervention must be avoided to prevent further harm and ensure the well-being of the sub-region’s inhabitants.