ECOWAS defence chiefs reach resolution on Niger Republic coup

Military defence chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Friday, resolved to explore a comprehensive approach that including; political, security and diplomatic options in addressing the situation in Niger Republic.

It would be recalled that on July 26, the military sacked the civilian president of the country, Mohammed Bazoum, forcing him to resign under captivity. The move which has elicited a mixed reaction of indifference and condemnation from the international has, however, won over the populace, which has held mass rallies I support of the coup plotters.

Under the aegis of the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CDS) of Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS), the security heads made this known at the end of their three-day Extra Ordinary Meeting, in Abuja.

Remarking, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff and President of the committee, Gen. Christopher Musa, commended ECOWAS for standing firm for democracy, adding that the militaries of the member countries were firmly in support of their stand.

He said that the committee collectively recognises the gravity of the situation in Niger and the urgent need for a well coordinated response.

Gen. Musa added that they also examined the immediate implication of the coup and its potential ripple effects across the ECOWAS region.

“We have also deliberated on the broader implication for democracy, peace and stability in West Africa and pleased to note that our discussions have yielded valuable insights and actionable recommendations.

“We have acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach that encompasses political, security and diplomatic dimensions.

“It is imperative that we translate our deliberations into concrete actions that effectively address the crisis and prevent a recurrence in the future.

“Democracy is what we stand for and democracy is what we will sustain,” he said.

Musa said the military chiefs agreed that there was no alternative democratic principles and rule of law in the region, adding that the coup in Niger represented blatant disregard for the fundamental principles that underpin regional integration and stability.

“We must condemn such action and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to democracy,” he said,  adding that regional security architecture should be strengthened to enhance collective response to security challenges.

According him, the meeting recognised the fact that the coup in Niger highlighted the fragility of the region.

“So I want to, through this medium also appeal to the military in Niger to give peace a chance, and then think about their populations and do the right thing by immediately restoring constitutional order in their country.

“That is our message to them and if they don’t, then we will make them hand over to civilian authorities and that is the determination of ECOWAS and we want to send that message clearly across to all of them,” he said.

Also, remarking, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Kana, said Nigeria was committed to restoring democracy in Niger, but said military option would be the last resort.

Countries represented at the meeting included Togo, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Nigeria, Liberia, Guinea Bissau, Ghana, Gambia, Cote Devoir, Cape Verde and Benin while Niger, Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso were absent.