Reversing Niger coup will “send a message” – Nigeria’s defence chief

A collective ECOWAS decision towards restoring democratic order in Niger will send a “strong message” although a potential military action faces challenges, Nigeria’s defence chief Gen. Chris Musah has said.

The Economic Community of West African States has imposed sanctions on Niger and threatened military action after soldiers there seized power last week. The regional body wants President Mohamed Bazoum reinstated.

The military junta, led by the head of the presidential guards, Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, has vowed to defend the country against foreign intervention, and has the backing of military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea.

– Key details to note

The defence chiefs of 10 ECOWAS nations met in Abuja on Wednesday to discuss the crisis.

Mr Musa, the group’s chairman, called for a “collective attention and a united response” in dealing with the crisis.

“We are not oblivious to the complex challenges that lie ahead. The task of restoring democratic governance in Niger is fraught with potential hurdles and complications,” he said, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

“However, we cannot afford to be hamstrung by these challenges. Instead, we must confront them head-on, drawing upon our shared experiences, wisdom, and the strength of our collective resolve.

“Our decisions will send a strong message about our commitment to democracy, our intolerance for unconstitutional changes of government, and our dedication to regional stability.”

Mr Musa called for openness, frankness, and constructive dialogue in their discussion and encouraged all to contribute fully and freely, listen attentively to each other, and work collaboratively towards a solution that would serve the best interests of the people of Niger.

The meeting was attended by Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo, Liberia, Ghana, Gambia, Cote D’voire, Cape Verde, Benin and Senegal.

Mali, Niger, Guinea, Guinea Bissau and Burkina Faso were absent.

– Opposed to sit-tight leaders

The commissioner for political affairs, peace and security of ECOWAS, Abdel-Fatau Musah, said the group was committed to eradication of all forms unconstitutional takeover of power in the sub region.

Mr Musah said the region was currently confronted with two existential threats: terrorism and the return of the military to power in the region.

Mr Musah said there was need to demonstrate that the ECOWAS could go “beyond barking and that it could also bite.”

He said the bloc was also against power obtained or maintained by unconstitutional means by sitting heads of states who tweak their constitutions to prolong their stay in power.

The bloc prefers a diplomatic solution but will use force, if necessary, he said.

“So the diplomacy is being given a chance to succeed and like we said, the military option is the very last on the table.

“And if we can avoid that, a peaceful resolution is our preferred option, but we have to prepare for all eventualities.”