Niger Coup - Military Junta Warns Against ECOWAS Military Intervention
The military junta in Niger has cautioned West African leaders convening in Abuja against any military involvement in response to the recent coup in the country. An emergency summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will take place on Sunday, July 30, in Abuja, addressing the situation in Niger after the military takeover. ECOWAS leaders have the option to suspend Niger from the organization's institutions, cut off access to the regional central bank and financial market, and close borders. France and the EU have already suspended financial aid and security cooperation with Niger, with the US following suit. General Abdourahamane Tchiani, head of the powerful presidential guard, declared himself the leader of Niger as President Mohamed Bazoum remains under military custody for four days. President of Nigeria and ECOWAS chairman, Bola Tinubu, affirmed their commitment to defending democracy in the region. Niger's military leaders warned against any mili...