Defence Chiefs from the 15 countries within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have affirmed their willingness to join a standby force aimed at reinstating democratic governance in Niger Republic.
This move follows a military coup carried out by the Presidential Guards in Niger, resulting in the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum.
In response, ECOWAS issued a seven-day ultimatum for the military junta to restore power or face potential sanctions, including the use of force.
Despite the junta’s dismissal of ECOWAS‘ threat and their commitment to resist international intervention, the regional body called upon Defence Chiefs of member states to activate the standby force and facilitate the restoration of democracy in Niger.
During a meeting in Accra, Ghana, on August 17, the Defence Chiefs, excluding those from military-controlled states and Cape Verde, expressed their readiness to support the reestablishment of civilian rule in Niger.
The Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, also emphasized their stance against the coup plotters.