The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has imposed a no-flight zone over the Niger Republic as an immediate response to the military coup.
Subscribe to our newsletter!
The ECOWAS made the announcement today during an emergency meeting in response to the mounting tension caused by the military actors attempting to seize power in Niger.
This massive action, which includes closing the air and land borders, is considered as a necessary response to the junta’s recent ascent, which has caused significant upheaval in the nation and threatens regional political stability.
Even though the leaders of the coup fear that the regional organization may soon launch a military intervention in the capital of the Sahel nation, the ECOWAS leadership is confident that the imposition of a no-flight zone will help limit the junta’s influence and prevent any potential allies from providing aerial support.
A week has been given to the junta to relinquish control, and in addition to the no-fly zone, the regional organization has also approved urgent financial sanctions over the coup. It should be noted, however, that the use of force has not been ruled out.
In order to support the restoration of peace and stability in the nation, ECOWAS further insisted that President Mohamed Bazoum continue to be recognized as the leader of Niger. It also urged its member nations and the larger international community to uphold and accept this decision.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who also serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, spoke during the emergency meeting he presided over today and condemned the military coup in the Niger Republic, adding that Africa has matured.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the head of Niger’s ruthless presidential guard, assumed control late on Wednesday. The United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, the United States, and other international and regional leaders have since denounced the action.
Tchiani, 59, has avoided the spotlight despite having a distinguished military career that saw him command the elite squad of 700 soldiers from 2011 to the present.
Tchiani took over on Friday after orchestrating a coup that started on Wednesday when his presidential guards detained President Mohamed Bazoum and locked him up in the palace.
