The Niger junta has issued a directive for its armed forces to be on the highest alert due to an elevated risk of attack. The authenticity of the internal document was confirmed by a security source. The order aims to ensure that forces are prepared to respond effectively to potential threats and to prevent any unexpected incidents.
The internal document shared online stated, “Threats of aggression to the national territory are increasingly being felt.”
In the midst of this, the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Omar Touray, clarified that ECOWAS has not declared war on Niger Republic nor has any intentions to invade the country. Instead, ECOWAS plans to use all necessary measures, including the standby force, to restore civil rule in Niger Republic. He emphasized that Niger is part of the West African region and has committed to following ECOWAS rules and measures in combating terrorism to ensure peace, democracy, and security in the community.
The coup that removed President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 led to concerns among ECOWAS leaders, who are keeping multiple options open for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. They’ve also ordered the activation of an ECOWAS standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger.