At its second extraordinary meeting since the July 26 coup in Niger, ECOWAS member states on Thursday, August 10, led by its chairman, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, sounded a (slightly) softer note, no longer insisting on military action, rather encouraging “engagement” in defense of democracy.
An earlier ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) ultimatum from July 30, threatening military action if ousted Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum were not returned to power, had been ignored by the junta leaders, leading to today’s meeting. The organization did, however, activate its “standby force,” as announced in its final statement.
While details of the internal discussion are not known, Tinubu’s entire opening remarks were published in the Premium Times (Nigeria). After first “reaffirming our [Tinubu’s] relentless commitment to democracy, human rights and the well-being of the people of Niger,” the newly-elected chair told attendees that, “it is crucial that we prioritize diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the bedrock of our approach.”