West African nations have taken a strong stance against the recent coup in Niger, imposing sanctions and warning of potential military action if the ousted President Mohammed Bazoum is not reinstated within a week.
West Africa threatens Niger with ultimatum amid France tensions
The 15-nation ECOWAS bloc’s response comes in the wake of the seventh coup in the Sahel region in recent years.
The situation escalated as supporters of the junta attacked the French embassy in Niger’s capital, Niamey, leading to heightened tensions in the region, per Reuters.
ECOWAS Imposes Sanctions and Threatens Force
In an emergency summit held in Nigeria to address the coup, leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) called for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger and demanded the reinstatement of President Mohammed Bazoum.
The bloc warned of potential reprisals if the coup leaders fail to comply, including the use of force. Additionally, ECOWAS announced a series of sanctions aimed at pressuring the coup leaders to step down.
Sanctions and Their Potential Impact
ECOWAS, along with the West African Economic and Monetary Union, imposed several sanctions against Niger in response to the coup. These measures include the closure of borders, a ban on commercial flights, freezing of financial transactions, and halting of aid.
Military officials involved in the coup will face travel bans and asset freezes. However, concerns have been raised that these sanctions could disproportionately affect civilians and exacerbate the challenges faced by one of the world’s poorest countries.
Chad’s Involvement and Regional Diplomacy
Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby, who came to power after a coup in 2021, volunteered to engage with the military leaders in Niger to seek a resolution.
His involvement reflects the regional concerns about stability and the potential influence of external actors in the situation.
French Embassy Attack and International Reactions
The coup and its aftermath have strained relations with former colonial power France. Supporters of the junta attacked the French embassy in Niamey, resulting in clashes with the police.
The international community, including the United States, the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union, has expressed condemnation of the coup and refused to recognise the new leaders. France, the EU, and the US have cut off financial support to Niger, further escalating tensions in the region.
Potential for Greater Russian Influence
The coup in Niger has raised concerns about the potential for greater Russian influence in the Sahel region.
Russia’s Wagner mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin has expressed support for the coup and offered the services of his fighters to restore order, signalling the involvement of external actors in the situation.