A military junta declared a successful coup in the Republic of Niger after blocking the country’s presidential palace and seizing power from President Bazoum on Wednesday morning.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has demanded the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum of the Republic of Niger by coup plotters who have been holding him hostage since Wednesday.
A military junta declared a successful coup in the Republic of Niger after blocking the country’s presidential palace and seizing power from President Bazoum on Wednesday morning.
The ECOWAS Commission in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on Thursday in a press statement reaffirmed its stand as it condemned the coup, saying that it is a total violation of the democratic principles that underpin the management of political power in the ECOWAS area.
The ECOWAS stated that it “is following with growing concern the developments underway in the Republic of Niger since Wednesday, July 26, 2023, marked by Communiqué No. 1 of the Army Staff, announcing the seizure of power by the Military Command of the Nigerien Armed Forces".
“ECOWAS vigorously rejects this published Communiqué and condemns this coup, which is in total violation of the democratic principles that underpin the management of political power in the ECOWAS area.
“ECOWAS is for the immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum, who remains the legitimate and legal President of Niger recognised by ECOWAS.
“ECOWAS renews its firm opposition to any change in political power by unconstitutional means and demands a return to constitutional order in Niger without delay and without condition.”
The ECOWAS said it will hold all those involved in the coup responsible for the security and safety of President Bazoum, his family, members of the government and the general public.