T10/8/10 Force/ECOWAS

ECOWAS has directed the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff to activate the bloc’s standby force with all its elements and deploy them to restore constitutional order in Niger.

This is part of the 12-point communique of the 2nd Extraordinary Summit of ECOWAS read by its President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, in Abuja.

The communique explains that the decision was adopted after diplomatic efforts made by ECOWAS in resolving the crisis were repelled by the military leadership in Niger

It also called on the African Union, AU, partner countries, and institutions to support the resolution taken by the sub-regional body.

ECOWAS said all efforts made to dialogue with Niger Republic military junta have been defiantly rejected by coup leaders as they condemn the continuous detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members.

The resolution partly reads, “Direct the committee of the Chief of Defence Staff to activate the ECOWAS standby force with all its elements immediately.

“Order the deployment of the ECOWAS stand-by force to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger.

“Underscore its continued commitment to the restoration of constitutional order through peaceful means.”