Emmanuel OchayiLeaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are currently meeting in Abuja to discuss the ongoing political situation in Niger Republic.
The gathering is to chart a course of action following the recent military coup in Niger that resulted in the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.
During a the last meeting held on July 30, ECOWAS leaders unanimously called for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Bazoum, emphasizing his legitimate status as the Head of State and Government of the Republic of Niger.
The leaders categorically rejected any notion of President Bazoum’s resignation, affirming him as the sole recognized and elected President by key bodies including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the broader international community.
The regional body had issued an ultimatum to the Niger coup plotters to reinstate President Bazoum or face sanctions and military action. The ultimatum expired on Sunday.
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24 hours later, the coup leaders named former Minister of Minister of the Economy and Finance in the country, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, as the Prime Minister.
The current host of the gathering, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, who is the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government had earlier sent a letter to the National Assembly, requesting approval for to deploy Nigerian troops to Niger.
The ECOWAS meeting is being held at the State House in Abuja.
The discussions are anticipated to encompass various options, including the potential for military intervention in Niger to reinstate democratic governance.
In addition, other strategies such as diplomatic pressure and economic sanctions will be deliberated upon by the leaders to effectively address the situation in Niger and restore political stability and democratic rule.
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