Despite success, ECOWAS describes Niger coup as ‘attempted’
ABUJA- During an extra-ordinary meeting of member states in Abuja on Sunday, July 30, 2023, the heads of state, said the juntas have illegally detained the legitimate president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum after July 26, “attempted coup”
ECOWAS resolved that they recognize only Bazoum as head of state and any other acts not coming from him shall not be recognized by the West African bloc.
Condemned his arrest and detention, calling on the juntas to release and reinstate Bazoum as the legitimate president of Niger.
The Economic Community of West African States, led by Nigeria’s leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rejected any resignation letter from Bazoum, considered as being under duress.
ECOWAS said they have given the military leaders, one week to release and reinstate the president, or else they will take military action against Niger.
While the bloc appointed a special envoy to deliver the message to the juntas, they said air, land, and sea borders with Niger and the rest of the member countries have been shut down. No fly zones instituted.
