In a bid to restore constitutional order in Niger following a military coup on July 26, West African nations have come together to form a "standby" military force. The decision was made during a meeting of the Ecowas regional bloc, where leaders discussed the need for armed intervention if necessary. While the use of force is seen as a last resort, the situation in Niger demands immediate action to protect democracy and the well-being of its citizens. This article explores the meeting outcomes, the concerns expressed by international bodies, and the actions being taken to address the crisis in Niger.
The military junta's seizure of power in Niger has raised alarm among neighboring nations and the international community. To address this crisis and restore constitutional order, West African leaders have agreed to assemble a "standby" military force. During the Ecowas meeting, Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu emphasized that the use of force would be a last resort, highlighting the bloc's commitment to diplomatic and peaceful solutions.
Concerns about the health and safety of deposed President Mohamed Bazoum have been expressed by the United States and the United Nations. Reports indicate that President Bazoum and his family have been living in deplorable conditions during their house arrest. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for urgent action to improve their living conditions.
Following the Ecowas meeting, Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara stated that the bloc has intervened in previous situations to restore constitutional order, and the current crisis in Niger cannot be accepted. Ivory Coast has pledged to provide a battalion of 850 to 1,100 men, while Nigeria and Benin will also contribute troops. The deployment of the Ecowas standby force aims to restore constitutional order in Niger, but specific details of the force and its actions have not been disclosed.
Before the meeting, Muslim clerics from northern Nigeria, which shares a long border with Niger, urged President Tinubu against the use of force to oust the coup leaders. However, President Tinubu
