President Omar Touray of the Economic Community of West African States Commission (ECOWAS) has clarified that the organization has not declared war on the people of Niger Republic and has no intention to invade the country. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Touray addressed the developments in Niger and ECOWAS Member States in transition.
He emphasized that there have been misrepresentations of ECOWAS decisions and actions in restoring democracy in Niger Republic. Touray stated that while ECOWAS is committed to peaceful resolution, it will use all measures, including the deployment of a standby force, to restore civil rule in Niger.
The situation in Niger arose following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in July. ECOWAS leaders have indicated that they are keeping all options on the table for a peaceful resolution and have ordered the activation of an ECOWAS standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger.
Touray further highlighted that Niger Republic, as part of the ECOWAS region, has subscribed to the organization’s rules and regulations. He urged the junta in Niger to listen to ECOWAS and emphasized that the organization will not accept coup d’états. The preparations are reportedly underway to deploy the standby force to Niger, with a focus on restoring democracy, peace, and security to the region.