In a significant development amid growing concerns, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a decisive step to address the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic. Despite facing opposition from prominent figures and groups within Nigeria, the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government convened yesterday to order the immediate deployment of a standby force. The primary aim is to reinstate constitutional order in Niger, which has been disrupted due to a recent coup.
The ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) constitutes a versatile alliance comprised of military, police, and civilian elements. This arrangement adheres to Chapter VIII of the United Nations Charter, which outlines provisions for regional peace and security initiatives. The organization has also extended an appeal to its partners, including the United Nations (UN), for support in their endeavor to restore order in line with their established normative instruments.
Tensions escalated further as reports emerged of the junta’s ominous stance. A senior United States diplomat was informed by the junta that any military intervention by ECOWAS countries to restore President Mohamed Bazoum’s rule would result in his assassination. This development followed the junta’s formation of a new government, appointing 21 cabinet ministers under the leadership of Prime Minister Mahamane Roufai Laouali. Eminent Nigerian groups such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere cautioned against military intervention in Niger.
The situation took a pivotal turn as the 2nd extraordinary summit convened in Abuja. Initially, ECOWAS Chairman and Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, advocated for a diplomatic approach and negotiations with the military junta. However, following closed-door deliberations, the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government released a communique in which they resolved to deploy troops. The objective is to reinstate the constitutional government in Niger Republic.
While maintaining a stance of keeping all options on the table, ECOWAS emphasized that any individual, body, or member country obstructing the peaceful resolution of the crisis would face consequences. The resolution, articulated by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, called upon partner countries and institutions, including the United Nations, to lend support for the swift restoration of constitutional order.
President Touray directed the committee and its Chief of Defence Staff to activate the ECOWAS standby force immediately. This step aims to expedite the deployment of troops to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic. In a comprehensive review of the crisis, ECOWAS noted that its diplomatic efforts had been rebuffed by the military leadership of Niger Republic. With the expiration of the one-week ultimatum for the restoration of constitutional order, ECOWAS reiterated its strong condemnation of the coup attempt and the unlawful detention of President Mohammed Bazoum, his government, and family members. The region is now poised for a crucial juncture in its effort to bring stability back to Niger Republic.
