The West African bloc, Ecowas, has drawn criticism from Niger after delaying its negotiation mission to the country due to “technical problems” with the chartered plane meant to transport most of the delegation from Abuja to Niamey.
Niger’s military regime-appointed prime minister expressed displeasure, accusing Ecowas of “bad faith” as only Togo attended the postponed meeting.
Ecowas clarified that their absence was not intended as a snub but resulted from “technical problems with the aircraft chartered for the flight from Abuja to Niamey.”
Despite the setback, Ecowas stated its commitment to reschedule the mission promptly.
The postponement comes amid Ecowas imposing sanctions on Niger following a coup last July that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Ecowas has demanded President Bazoum’s release, threatened military intervention, and suspended all trade ties with the landlocked country.
Niger’s junta had hoped the meeting would contribute to easing diplomatic relations with Ecowas member countries.