In a tense diplomatic standoff, negotiations between the military junta in Niger, led by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) delegation have hit a roadblock. The talks aimed at finding a resolution to restore democracy in Niger have been unsuccessful, causing heightened anxiety and uncertainty.
Sources close to the ongoing meeting in Niamey, Niger’s capital, have revealed that the junta is contemplating recalling Nigerien ambassadors from Nigeria, Togo, the United States, and France. The junta’s frustration with the negotiations is evident as they also plan to evict French and US troops from the country and terminate all Memorandum of Understanding agreements with France.
“The ongoing negotiation has failed. The junta has declared that it’ll recall Niger’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Togo, France, and the US,” disclosed a reliable defense source.
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The ECOWAS delegation’s efforts to mediate the crisis come as President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, dispatched two missions to Niger. The first delegation, led by former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), engaged in talks with the coupists and other relevant parties in Niger. The second delegation, led by Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, held discussions with the leaders of Libya and Algeria.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.) expressed cautious optimism after the meeting, stating, “We have just been given our marching orders to go to Niger and convey the feelings of our heads of state in the region that they are not happy with what happened. And they gave them an ultimatum that the coupists should desist from what they are doing and give back power to an elected President.”
Ambassador Babagana Kingibe emphasized the importance of solidarity and cooperation with neighboring countries in resolving the crisis. “Of course, this kind of situation requires solidarity. It requires coordination with all parties that are relevant to the situation. In that regard, Libya and Algeria are also very important neighbors of Niger,” he said.
The ECOWAS delegation’s mission aims to find a diplomatic solution and restore stability to Niger while respecting the principles of democracy. However, with the military junta’s latest stance and unresolved differences, the situation remains highly delicate and fluid.
