Going by the resolutions of the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government yesterday in Abuja, one thing is clear – War is imminent on the Niger!! This particular military coup against President Mohamed Bazoum of the Republic of Niger would surely not go unchallenged like those of Mali and Burkina Faso.
As the new Chairman of ECOWAS and the President of West Africa’s biggest military force, President Tinubu would surely live up to his promise of defending democracy in the sub-region. This is surely his first litmus test as a regional cum continental leader, even though the test is coming too early in the life of his nascent administration.
ECOWAS has ordered the closure of all Niger borders and the suspension of trade, diplomacy, and financial services to the country. A no-fly zone has been declared over Niger and its military hierarchy has been marked for more significant sanctions.
If Niger’s military fails to restore deposed President Bazoum, it’s clear that it would have to contend with ECOMOG Forces. Niger may become another Sierra Leone or Liberia where similar military operations were executed to reverse military coups and restore democratically elected presidents.
The options available to Niger’s military are limited. It would either pray that the one-week ultimatum issued by ECOWAS is not followed by immediate action, or there should be some form of understanding on both sides.
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As it stands, with the country’s less than 12,000 poorly equipped military, the ECOMOG Forces will easily brush through them and remove their top chiefs. Niger is no match for ECOWAS and its resolute military forces, especially with the express support of the US, France, and the EU. France would even readily render logistical support with 1,500 soldiers already in Niger.
SCRIPT CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu
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