The armed forces of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries need more time to prepare for the introduction of their military contingent in Niger, the Wall Street Journal newspaper writes, citing a senior commander of one of the countries of the regional bloc.
ECOWAS had earlier given a week for President Mohamed Bazoum to be returned to power in Niger. Otherwise, the head of the community’s commission, Omar Alier Touré, said ECOWAS could use force to restore constitutional order. Reuters reported the previous day that a plan for a possible military intervention in Niger had already been drawn up.
“For the moment, we need to build up the strength of our units before taking part in such hostilities … The success of any military action depends on good preparation,” the newspaper quoted a commander as saying.
ECOWAS earlier announced it was suspending financial aid to Niger, as well as imposing a travel ban and freezing the assets of coup plotters, their families and anyone agreeing to “participate in institutions” set up by the rebel military. It also closed borders and suspended commercial and financial transactions between the Community countries and Niger.
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