11 ECOWAS leaders convene in Abuja to address Niger Republic’s crisis
Amidst concerns over the military coup on Niger Republic, an extraordinary meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Heads of State and Governments commenced in Abuja. Out of the 16 member countries, 11 leaders are in attendance, with the summit taking place at the Presidential Villa.
The primary focus of the meeting revolves around deliberations on the recent developments in Niger Republic. Specifically, discussions will center on determining the appropriate course of action following the resolutions and ultimatum issued to the military junta responsible for ousting democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
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Two weeks prior, ECOWAS mandated the military junta to reverse their actions and restore President Bazoum to power. A seven-day ultimatum was given, but unfortunately, it has since lapsed. ECOWAS warned of potential sanctions, including military intervention, should the junta fail to comply with their demands.
Prominent leaders attending the summit include ECOWAS Chairman and President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco of Guinea Bissau, and President Everiste Ndayishimiye of Burundi. Other notable attendees are President Alassane Ouattara of Cote d’Ivoire, President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, President Macky Sall of Senegal, President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic, and Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé Eyadéma of Togo.
Notably absent from the gathering are the leaders of Niger Republic, Mali, Chad, and Burkina Faso. The Gambia and Liberia have sent their Foreign Affairs Ministers as representatives.
The closed-door session following the summit is expected to yield crucial outcomes, shaping the response to the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic.
