The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken decisive steps in response to the coup in Niger Republic.
ECOWAS led by President Bola Tinubu, the regional body announced the imposition of fresh sanctions
He made this known via his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale.
The move comes after the Nigerien military leaders neglected a seven-day ultimatum from ECOWAS to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum or face sanctions.
Nigeria took part in the effort by disconnecting the supply of 150 megawatts of electricity daily to Niger Republic.
However, the junta rejected the regional bloc's threats and even cut ties with Nigeria, Togo, France, and the United States, while closing Nigerien airspace indefinitely.
President Tinubu, as both ECOWAS chairman and Nigeria's leader, stressed that the ECOWAS mandate isn't a Nigerian one and that the response to the coup remains devoid of ethnic or religious bias.
He emphasized diplomacy and peaceful means as the preferred resolution strategies.
Meanwhile, the Nigerien military leaders have rejected diplomatic efforts from African countries aimed at reinstating constitutional order.
Delegates from ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations were denied entry due to concerns about security and public anger over sanctions.
In the midst of this, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) called for dialogue and the lifting of sanctions against Niger Republic.
They urged ECOWAS to restore full dialogue with the Nigerien military junta, considering potential regional consequences.
Similarly, the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation expressed concern over the situation, highlighting the historical ties between Nigeria and Niger and advocating for an amicable resolution.
On the other hand, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) expressed caution over military intervention, favoring dialogue to achieve democratic restoration.
The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) also appealed for diplomatic solutions, stating the potential negative effects of military actions on the entire West African sub-region and the continent.
Meanwhile, an ECOWAS summit is scheduled for tomorrow to discuss the developments and decide on the best course of action regarding the coup in Niger Republic.
