ECOWAS directs military action to restore democracy in Niger

Tamarauemi Ebimini

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has directed military action to restore democracy in the Republic of Niger.

This directive came following the 2nd Extraordinary Summit on the socio-political situation in the Republic of Niger in Abuja on Thursday.

This is coming after the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had earlier said that the regional bloc will continue to champion diplomacy and dialogue, as well as earnest discussions with all parties involved, to restore constitutional governance in the Republic of Niger.

The ECOWAS Authority chairperson spoke on Thursday in Abuja at the opening of the 2nd Extraordinary Summit on the socio-political situation in the Republic of Niger.

“In reaffirming our relentless commitment to democracy, human rights, and the well-being of the people of Niger, it is crucial that we prioritize diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the bedrock of our approach.

“We must engage all parties involved, including the coup leaders, in earnest discussions to convince them to relinquish power and reinstate President Bazoum.

“It is our duty to exhaust all avenues of engagement to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance in Niger.”

However, ECOWAS has made a U-turn and decided to activate military action to restore democracy in the Republic of Niger.