The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced its commitment to deploy "all means necessary" to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger amidst apprehensions of a coup.
Nigerian President and ECOWAS Chairman, Bola Tinubu, held a closed-door meeting with Benin's President, Patrice Talon, at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja.
President Tinubu informed journalists that the meeting aimed to address the military's actions and disruptions in Niger, and President Talon was heading to the Niger Republic for further consultations.
Media reports indicated that Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum was detained by members of the Presidential Guard, leading to heightened tensions in the country.
“The situation is serious enough”, Talon told State House correspondents after the meeting.
Both leaders expressed their serious concern as neighboring countries to Nigeria and Benin over the developments in Niger, emphasizing the need for swift action.
President Talon assured that ECOWAS would spare no effort in restoring order to the troubled state, with mediation efforts commencing Wednesday evening.
He emphasized the importance of pursuing peaceful and harmonious resolutions while being prepared to employ all necessary means to restore constitutional order in Niger.
He said, “So, as the president has committed, the mediation actions will be reinforced this very evening so that this situation can be settled in peace between brothers because even when what is not acceptable is done, it is necessary that in peace, we can correct this.
“This is our first option and we think it will be a success.”
