According to ECOWAS, on 8 August, a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the UN and the African Union to Niger did not take place because it was denied entry.
A statement posted on the ECOWAS social media page X (formerly Twitter) said: “The mission was canceled after receiving word from the military (who organized the coup in Niger) that they were not ready to accept the tripartite delegation.”
The organization states that, in accordance with the decision taken on 30 July, the emergency ECOWAS summit will continue to take all necessary measures to restore constitutional order in Niger. The planned mission was part of an effort to find a peaceful solution to the crisis in the country.
On July 26, a military group revolted in Niger and announced that President Mohamed Bazum was removed from power, borders were closed, a curfew was imposed, the constitution was suspended, and parties’ political activity was banned. The National Council for the Liberation of the Fatherland was formed to govern the republic and was led by General Abdurakhman Tchiani on July 28. At the same time, according to Nigerian politicians, Bazum is “in good health” and is in contact with leaders and government representatives of other countries, but is forbidden to leave the residence.
On July 30, the leaders of the ECOWAS states demanded the immediate release of Bazum, the restoration of presidential powers and the restoration of constitutional order in the country. On 4 August, the military of the ECOWAS member states announced at an emergency meeting that they had developed a plan in case of intervention in Niger. The community ultimatum expired on August 7.
Former President of Niger Mohammed Bazum and his wife delayed own safety.