The deadline set by the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) for the elected president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum – who was deposed in a coup on July 26 – to be reinstated to office has passed. West Africa is now bracing to see how Ecowas, which has threatened to take all steps, including military intervention, will react.
The situation is complicated by the fact that several member states of Ecowas, including Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which have also had recent military coups, have publicly supported the coup plotters.
The military junta, led by the former leader of the presidential guard, General Abdourahamane Tiani, is understood to have asked for assistance from the Russian-owned mercenary Wagner Group.
