The article concerning the news in Niger highlights the ultimatum given by ECOWAS to the power in place. In three days, this ultimatum will end and ECOWAS says it is ready to take all necessary measures, including the use of force, if President Mohamed Bazoum is not released and if the constitutional order is not restored.
Mediation is underway, with an ECOWAS delegation led by former Nigerian President Abdulsalami Abubakar traveling to Niamey to try to find a solution. Negotiations are ongoing, but it is clear that ECOWAS will not tolerate a situation where a democratically elected president is held hostage.
The article also highlights the hope for a peaceful end to the crisis without resorting to violence. Democratic values and the preservation of political stability are at the heart of ECOWAS’ approach. However, if the ruling military refuses to return power by the end of the ultimatum, ECOWAS is considering other measures, including military intervention.
In the event of armed intervention, it is mentioned that the member countries of ECOWAS, including Benin, would be ready to participate in the resolution of the crisis. However, it is stressed that the primary objective is to negotiate a peaceful solution rather than resorting to force.
It is also mentioned that the chiefs of staff of the ECOWAS countries are currently meeting in Abuja to discuss the establishment of a military force and an intervention plan. The article raises the possibility of an ECOWAS implosion or regional conflict if a military intervention were to take place, but emphasizes that the goal is to resolve the crisis peacefully.
In summary, the article outlines the current situation in Niger, with the ECOWAS ultimatum nearing its end and ongoing efforts to find a peaceful solution to the political crisis. He highlights the importance of democratic values and the will of ECOWAS to preserve political stability in the region