The announcement of the coup in Niger is a significant setback for the leadership of the West Africa regional bloc, Ecowas, and further exacerbates the constitutional crises in the region.
Over the past three years, military coups have toppled the presidents of Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso.
Similarly, in Niger, the soldiers have pointed to the deteriorating security situation and poor governance as the rationale behind their takeover of the government.
This trend raises questions about potential external influences driving these military coups in the former French colonies.
Just two weeks ago, Ecowas chairman President Bola Tinubu expressed grave concern over the escalating levels of terrorism and the emerging pattern of coups in West Africa. He called for urgent and concerted action to address these issues.
In response to the current situation in Niger, President Tinubu has dispatched the President of Benin, Patrice Talon, to mediate and seek a resolution.