Nigerian Reaction to US Influence on ECOWAS Concerning Niger Military Coup
In recent times, there has been a surge in support for the united efforts led by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in response to the unsettling military coup in Niger Republic. As the prominent regional power, the United States has strongly encouraged the ECOWAS coalition, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to uphold their resolute commitment to quickly resolve the situation.
Demonstrating unwavering solidarity with ECOWAS's collective determination is Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, a respected figure renowned for his diplomatic skills. Recognizing the vital importance of ECOWAS's actions, Prof. Akinyemi has unreservedly endorsed the organization's relentless endeavors in its determined mission to reinstate democracy in the neighboring Northern nation of Niger.
In an unprecedented move, Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, has not only expressed but solidified America's position on the matter. Through his trusted spokesperson, Matthew Miller, Blinken has communicated a clear and steadfast message: a demand for sustained pressure to ensure the release of President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been confined to his Niamey Presidential Palace since the military coup occurred on July 26.
In a private conversation that resonated throughout diplomatic circles, Secretary Blinken conveyed his admiration for President Tinubu's dynamic leadership during the ECOWAS Second Extraordinary Summit. He emphasized the utmost importance of maintaining pressure on the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland. The objective is clear: to reinstate constitutional order and secure the freedom of President Bazoum and his family – a plea that holds deep significance within the international community.
ECOWAS's robust response to the coup has encompassed various actions, prominently featuring economic sanctions imposed on the junta. However, the junta's subsequent announcement of its intention to prosecute President Bazoum on charges of high treason and jeopardizing national security has sent ripples through diplomatic channels. The allegations are based on the junta's claims of evidence linking Bazoum to activities that crossed the boundaries of both internal and external security.
Predictably, ECOWAS has reacted with disbelief to these accusations. Their stance emphasizes their astonishment, highlighting the inconsistency between these threats and the regime's stated commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Such provocative actions sharply contrast with the efforts of the military authorities in the Republic of Niger to restore constitutional order through diplomatic avenues and nonviolent means.
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