Reportedly, the individuals who staged the coup in Niger are said to have agreed to engage in negotiations with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as confirmed by mediators.
This information was disclosed by the leader of a delegation of Islamic clerics, Nigerian Sheik Bala Lau, on Sunday following a meeting with Niger’s newly established leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.
The Nigerian delegation journeyed to Niamey, Niger’s capital, on Saturday amidst escalating tensions between Niger and the ECOWAS group of states, currently under the leadership of Nigeria.
Sheik Lau mentioned that during the meeting, all topics were discussed, including ECOWAS’ demand for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum, who was removed from power in the coup that occurred on July 26.
Tchiani reportedly assured the delegation that diplomatic and peaceful resolution avenues were open to address the matter. He also defended the motives behind the coup.
Until now, Niger’s new leadership has declined official delegations from ECOWAS. One delegation was forced to depart shortly after arriving at the airport, and another was barred from entering the country.
ECOWAS has imposed sanctions on Niger and has issued threats of force if the coup leaders do not restore President Bazoum to power.
On a related note, ECOWAS heads of state made the decision on Thursday to activate a standby force for the purpose of reinstating constitutional order in Niger. Simultaneously, efforts to find a peaceful solution were reaffirmed as a top priority.