FG: Why The Niger Coup Must Not Stand, Says Use Of Force, Last Resort

*Urges International Support for ECOWAS in Restoring Democratic Governance”

The Federal Government has explained why the international Community should support the regional body in its efforts to restore democratic governance in Niger Republic.

It said should the military forceful takeover is allowed, it would dampen the reputation of the regional body.

The Federal Government however said the use of force would be the last resort.

Niger President Niger Republic President Mohamed Bazoum was toppled in a Palace coup led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani ion July 26.

Already, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS’) has imposed a series of sanctions on the country, including freezing of assets in commercial banks in member states, travel ban amongst others.

Briefing the Diplomatic Corps on the current political situation in Niger Republic yesterday in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry, Foreign Affairs Amb. Adamu Lamuwa said the current situation has raised serious concerns about the stability of the region.

He said: ” No doubt, the developments in Niger, like Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea, have raised serious concerns about regional stability and democratic principles in the region. There is concern that the success of the coup in Niger would significantly dampen ECOWAS’s reputation, especially if the country joins the ranks of others that are governed by unconstitutional leaders, such as Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Mali.”

While still insisting the ousted President remains the legitimate President, the Permanent Secretary also said that the regional body is concerned about the state of the ousted President, his family members and other detained political leaders.

“The ECOWAS authority aims to ensure that the life of President Bazoum, his family members and other political leaders detained alongside him are preserved and their constitutional rights protected. The Region holds that President Bazoum remains the legitimate President and Head of State of the Republic of Niger, recognized and supported by ECOWAS, the AU and the International Community and therefore rejects any form of resignation that may purportedly come from him, perhaps under duress.”

He however revealed that dialogue was still ongoing and hopefully it will not get to the point of deploying troops to restore democratic rule.

He called on the international community on the need to be resolute in its support for ECOWAS’ stand.