Niger holds its breath as the ultimatum launched by ECOWAS to the military junta ends this Sunday, August 6. Since last week, the West African organization has demanded a return to constitutional order and called for the restoration of President Bazoum in his functions. Faced with the impasse in diplomatic negotiations, a military intervention by ECOWAS is even being considered to dislodge the military in power. A look back at a week of intense negotiations which shook the Nigerien nation.
High-level discussions have increased in recent days. The president of the Chadian transition went to Niamey at the start of the week, followed by a delegation from ECOWAS a few days later. Unfortunately, these meetings did not lead to meetings with General Tchiani, head of the junta, nor President Bazoum.
At the same time, the chiefs of staff of ECOWAS member countries, with the exception of countries led by juntas, held a meeting in Abuja to plan a potential military intervention. Friday evening, they announced that they had defined the contours of this mission and were ready to act in the event of a green light from ECOWAS leaders.
Among the countries ready to send troops to Niger are Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Senegal. However, the military coup leaders of Mali and Burkina Faso have warned that they will consider any military intervention as a declaration of war. For their part, Chad and Algeria oppose military intervention and favor dialogue with the junta.
Pressure is high on Bola Tinubu, President of Nigeria, who could play a central role in a possible regional military operation. However, many voices are being raised to dissuade the head of state from embarking on this adventure. Senators, influential Muslim groups and even the opposition are calling for diplomacy and dialogue to be favored over war.
Representatives from northern Nigeria are concerned about the consequences that military intervention could have on the border regions with Niger, where commercial, social and cultural ties are close. Some also fear an influx of Nigerien refugees into Nigeria, as many Nigeriens have fled jihadist violence in their country.
As the ECOWAS ultimatum comes to an end, Niger holds its breath awaiting the decision of the military junta and possible regional military intervention. The situation remains tense and the outcome remains uncertain. The international community is closely following the events and the consequences of these diplomatic negotiations on the stability of the region.
Note: This article is an original article inspired by current events in Niger. The information has been adapted to create unique and original content.