ECOWAS Leaders Unite for President Bazoum's Reinstatement in Niger

At the Extraordinary Summit on Socio-Political Situation in the Republic of Niger, the Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS passionately called for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate Head of State and Government of Niger.

Rejection of Purported Resignation and International Recognition

In a communique read by Dr. Omar Touray, the President of ECOWAS Commission, the leaders categorically rejected any claim of resignation by Bazoum and declared him as the only recognized and elected President by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community. They emphasized that only official acts of President Bazoum or his duly-mandated officials will be acknowledged by ECOWAS.

The ECOWAS leaders expressed their strong condemnation of the attempted overthrow of constitutional order in Niger and the illegal detention of President Bazoum, as well as members of his family and government. They demanded the full restoration of constitutional order in Niger, considering the illegal detention as a hostage situation, holding the coupists solely responsible for the safety of Bazoum, his family, and his government.

In the event that ECOWAS' demands are not met within one week, the leaders asserted their readiness to take all necessary measures, including the use of force, to restore constitutional order in Niger. To address the situation, the Chiefs of Defence Staff of ECOWAS would convene immediately.

Sanctions and Special Representative

In response to the coup attempt, the Summit announced immediate sanctions on Niger, including the closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger. 

Additionally, a no-fly zone would be established for all commercial flights to and from Niger, and all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member States and Niger would be suspended. Assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Bank, Niger state enterprises, and parastatals in commercial banks would be frozen, and Niger would be suspended from all financial assistance and transactions within ECOWAS.

Furthermore, travel bans and asset freezes were imposed on military officials involved in the coup attempt, as well as their family members and civilians participating in any institution or government established by these military officials.

The Summit also agreed to appoint and dispatch a Special Representative to deliver the demands of the authority to the Republic of Niger.

Closing Remarks and Unity

President Bola Tinubu, the Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, expressed gratitude to fellow leaders and emphasized the essence of African unity and solidarity. He reaffirmed the commitment to democracy, peace, and prosperity and rejected any coup attempts or interruption of constitutional order, emphasizing the importance of working together for the well-being, prosperity, and happiness of the African people.

Bilateral Meetings and Attendees

Prior to the Summit, President Tinubu held bilateral meetings with President Umaro Embalo of Guinea Bissau, President Mahmat Itno of Chad, and Michael Health, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of African Affairs. Presidents of various ECOWAS countries attended the Summit, while others were represented.