News

CSOs Charged on Adherence to Regulations

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By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, have been charged to adhere to regulations guiding their operations and protect themselves from being used as conduits for crimes, especially money laundering and terrorism financing. 

Some Executives of Regulatory Agencies gave the charge while addressing a gathering of Civil Society Organizations in Ogun State at a workshop put together by Global Rights, in collaboration with the European Union. 

Participants at the two-day workshop on Regulatory compliance for members of the community on the practice of Civic Space strengthening in Ogun State included representatives of the Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, the Economic and other Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Federal and State revenue agencies, the European Union and ECOWAS. 

The Deputy Director, CAC’s Registrar-General’s Office, Mr Tolulope Sonaike and a Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, Mr Temitope Erinomo encouraged the Non-profit Organizations to ensure strict compliance with the laws and verify the details of all stakeholders, particularly the donors and beneficiaries of their activities. 

Also, a legal expert on Companies and Allied matters, Professor Adedeji Adekunle advised Civil Society Groups to ensure proper documentation with the regulatory agencies and protect themselves from being used as platforms for laundering proceeds from crime and other illicit activities.

In a remark, Former Director of the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre, WARDC, Dr Abiola Akiode-Afolabi enjoined the participants to make good use of the knowledge gained during the training, with a view to enhancing performance among the Civil Society Organizations.

Earlier, the Project Manager of Global Rights, Mr Edosa Oviawe had explained that the workshop was organised to bridge the knowledge gap and empower CSOs to be able to comply with the statutory regulations guiding their activities, for optimal performance. 

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Foreign

Burkina Faso, Two Others Pull out of ECOWAS

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The military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger had announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, saying it had become a threat to member states.

The ECOWAS Commission, however, said the community is ready for a “negotiated solution” with the three countries
But the Presidency in its immediate reaction yesterday, said the three countries were technically not members of ECOWAS, since they were on suspension.

Leaders of the three Sahel nations issued a statement saying it was a “sovereign decision” to leave the ECOWAS “without delay”.

Struggling with jihadist violence and poverty, the regimes have had tense ties with ECOWAS since coups took place in Niger last July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020.

All three, founding members of the bloc in 1975, were suspended from ECOWAS with Niger and Mali facing heavy sanctions as the bloc tried to push for early return of civilian governments with elections.

The sanctions were an “irrational and unacceptable posture” at a time when the three “have decided to take their destiny in hand”, a reference to the coups that removed civilian administrations.

The three nations have hardened their positions in recent months and joined forces in an “Alliance of Sahel States”.

The leaders’ joint statement added that 15-member ECOWAS, “under the influence of foreign powers, betraying its founding principles, had become a threat to member states and peoples.

They accused the grouping of failing to help them tackle jihadists, who swept into Mali from 2012 and then on to Burkina Faso and Niger.

Under pressure from the military regimes, France has removed ambassadors and troops and watched Russia fill the void militarily and politically.

The French army’s withdrawal from the Sahel, the region along the Sahara desert across Africa, has heightened concerns over conflicts spreading southward to Gulf of Guinea states Ghana, Togo, Benin and Ivory Coast.

BBC / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Economy

ECOWAS Launches Mobile App to Protect African Intellectual Property 

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By Hamza Alkali (Abuja)

A mobile application for the promotion and protection of intellectual property originating from African artists and innovators has been launched. 

The mobile app known as ‘AfricDeezayn’ was developed by the ECOWAS Commission in collaboration World Intellectual Property Organisation, WIPO, the Japanese government and other partners.  

At the launch, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse represented by Dr Anthony Elumelu explained that the app would serve as an opportunity for innovators to showcase and protect their intellectual property.

The Senior Director, Department of Trademarks, Industrial Designs and Geographical Indications, Brands and Designs sector, World Intellectual Property Organisation, WIPO, Mr Marcus Höpperger while commending the ECOWAS on its efforts towards the protection of property rights, said ‘AfricDeezayn’ would serve as an avenue for West African entrepreneurs and innovators to showcase their work and also protect its originality.

The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Matsunaga Kazuyoshi who went down memory lane on Japan’s history of innovation and Intellectual Property Protection said a lot of revenue and jobs would be generated from the newly developed app.

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Security

Osun State Command Gets a New Commissioner Of Police

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By Folake Oye

A new Commissioner of Police, Mr Bzigu Dali Kwazhil has assumed duty at the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF.

This follows the recent redeployment of former Commissioner of Police, Mr Isyaku Mohammed.

Mr Kwazhil was born in Mildu Shalmi, Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State and holds a History/Political Science degree from Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria, Kaduna State.

He was appointed into the Nigeria Police Force in May 1992 as Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (Cadet ASP).

Mr Kwazhil has served in several departments in the Nigeria Police namely: Administration, Operations and Investigations since joining the Force.

He was a Contingent Commander, Nigeria Formed Police Units to the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, Pioneer Police Logistics Officer/NCC, Team Coordinator ECOWAS mission, Guinea Bissau and Chief of Training, Department of Peacekeeping Operations, FHQ Abuja among others.

Mr Kwazhil has served in various capacities in different states of the country and outside Nigeria.

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Politics

Nigeria Submits Report to ECOWAS Parliament

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The Nigerian Delegation to ECOWAS Parliament says the government is worried about the human rights situation in the country including violations that occurred during the off-cycle governorship elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states.

The Delegation expressed its worry while presenting the country’s report at the ongoing second Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament held in Abuja.

The member representing Onitsha North-South Federal Constituency, Linda Chuba Ikpeazu, told the regional Parliament that the government has promised to investigate the violations and bring the perpetrators to justice.

While outlining the country’s progress in the areas of politics, security, economy and human rights, Ikpeazu gave assurance of Nigeria’s commitment to advancing the growth of the ECOWAS region through various community development initiatives.

The report highlighted some of the security challenges such as the Boko Haram insurgency, the rise of criminal gangs in the South-East region, and the threat of secessionist movements; it also affirms President Tinubu’s resolve to prioritise security by addressing the challenges.

On the economic front, the report noted that Nigeria’s economy has been affected by some factors, including the recent Naira redesign policy, low crude oil output, high inflation, and weak growth of the private sector.

However, it indicated that the Nigerian economy is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2024 despite the challenges.

The report also affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing ECOWAS texts, including the Protocol Relating to the Community Levy, the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons and Goods, and the Supplementary Act on Equality of Rights between Women and Men for Sustainable Development in the ECOWAS Region as well as fulfilling its obligations under ECOWAS treaties and protocols.

The report concluded that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would work more closely with member states to ensure the implementation of ECOWAS decisions and policies.

FRCN Abuja/Adetutu Adetule

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Foreign

Niger Junta Faces Prospects of Sanction from EU

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The European Union has begun steps to impose sanctions on members of Niger’s military junta, three months after they took power in a coup.

The EU Council announced on Monday that it had “adopted a framework” that will allow it to impose sanctions on “individuals and entities responsible for actions that threaten the peace, stability and security of Niger”.

The council also said that the sanctions will apply to individuals who undermine Niger’s constitutional order, democracy or rule of law, as well as individuals who commit human rights violations or abuses.

The sanctions will include travel bans, asset freezes and bans on the provision of funds to sanctioned individuals.

“With today’s decision, the EU strengthens its support to (West African bloc) Ecowas’ efforts and sends a clear message: military coups bear costs,” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.

The EU, however, said that it would allow humanitarian exemptions to asset freeze measures.

The European move follows the imposition of sanctions on Niger by Ecowas and the suspension of aid by the US government.

BBC / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Foreign

ECOWAS Says Niger Junta’s Transition Plan Unacceptable

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The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, has rejected the three-year transition plan proposed by Niger Republic’s military junta.

It will be recalled that the coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, had at a meeting with ECOWAS delegation, led by General Abadulsalami Abubakar, retd, in Niamey on Saturday, promised the military government would return Niger Republic to democracy in three years.

Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, told BBC in an interview, yesterday, that the proposal was unacceptable to ECOWAS, setting the ground for a military operation.

Meanwhile, thousands of Nigeriens flooded the streets yesterday declaring support for the military junta.

Their demonstration came against the backdrop of ECOWAS’ insistence on invading the country to rout out coupists should diplomacy fail to restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum to power.

The rally came on a day an official of the government in Niger said talks between the ECOWAS delegation, led by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, retd and the junta achieved very little result.

The official also noted that already, there are deep divisions within the presidential guard, which ousted President Bazoum, saying should ECOWAS launch an attack on Niger Republic, the majority of soldiers in the presidential complex would flee.

This is even as Pope Francis yesterday canvassed a diplomatic solution to the political crisis.

The demonstrators chanted slogans hostile to former colonial power, France and especially ECOWAS, which is considering a potential military operation to reinstate elected President Mohamed Bazoum if ongoing negotiations with coup leaders fail.

The Sahel state’s new military leaders have officially banned demonstrations but in practice, those in support of the coup are allowed to go ahead.

The demonstrators waved placards, saying “stop the military intervention” and “No, to sanctions”, in reference to the financial and trade restrictions imposed by ECOWAS, four days after the coup on July 26.

Yesterday’s pro-coup rally was accompanied by musicians praising the new military regime, according to AFP.

The latest in a string of pro-coup rallies came a day after the new military ruler in Niamey warned that an attack on Niger would not be a “walk in the park.”

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Religion

Pope Canvasses Diplomatic Solution to Niger Crisis

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Pope Francis on Sunday urged a diplomatic solution to a political crisis in Niger, sparked by a coup that threatens stability in the region.

“I am following with concern what is happening in Niger, and join the bishops’ call in favour of peace in the country and stability in the Sahel,” said Pope Francis, addressing the faithful in St Peter’s Square after his Angelus prayer.

“I join with prayer the efforts of the international community to find a peaceful solution as soon as possible for the good of everyone,” said the 86-year-old.

Army officers ousted  President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, making Niger the fourth West African nation to suffer a coup since 2020.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Foreign

Niger: ECOWAS Delegation Meets Bazoum, Junta Leader

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An ECOWAS delegation to Niger has met ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and also held talks with the junta leader, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.

Around noon on Saturday, the delegation arrived Niamey, a day after military chiefs in West Africa disclosed they were on standby for a possible intervention to reinstate Bazoum.

Aljazeera reports that, Niger’s governing military council confirmed the arrival of the ECOWAS representatives, led by former Nigeria’s leader Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Since his ousting, this was the first time Bazoum was allowed to be seen by foreign officials.

“We met Bazoum, we heard from him what was done to him. He told us about the problems he’s facing… without doubt, the meeting has opened discussions to lead to a way to resolve this crisis”, Abdulsalami Abubakar said.

The delegation also met with Tchiani on Saturday, but there was no disclosure as to what was discussed.

Meanwhile, some Nigérien youths in Kano had a march in solidary with the stance of ECOWAS demanding the reinstating of Mohamed Bazoum whose government was disrupted following a coup d’état in July.

Muzha Kucha

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Security

ECOWAS Warns Niger Junta of Readiness for Invasion

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The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, said yesterday in Accra, Ghana, that it will not hesitate to invade Niger Republic, if all efforts to reverse the coup in the country fail.

This came as the German government said it is in support of sanctions imposed on the military junta in the country by the European Union, EU.

It will be recalled that ECOWAS Heads of State and Government had at its second extraordinary summit in Abuja last week, activated its standing force should the junta in Niger refuse to restore to power ousted president of the country, Mohamed Bazoum.

The threat came as defence chiefs of member states met in the Ghanaian capital to strategise on the next line of action on Niger and discuss details of the standby force. The meeting continues today.
“Let no one be in doubt that if everything else fails, the valiant forces of West Africa…are ready to answer to the call of duty.

“By all means available, constitutional order will be restored in the country,” ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, said.

He listed past ECOWAS deployments in Sierra Leone, Liberia and elsewhere as examples of readiness for military action.

Musah rejected the accusation that ECOWAS is being manipulated by France or any other outside power.
“What they forget is that ECOWAS is a rules-based organisation. We have our protocols, we have our norms and we are ready to protect them.

“That’s why the Heads of State are saying if push comes to shove, we are going into Niger with our own contingents, own equipment and our own resources to make sure we restore constitutional order. If other democracy-loving partners want to support us, they are welcome,” he said.

‘Cat and mouse game in Niger’

Musah accused the Niger coup leaders of “playing cat-and-mouse” with ECOWAS by refusing to meet with its envoys and seeking justifications for their takeover of power.

He said most of the bloc’s 15 member states are prepared to participate in the standby force that could intervene in Niger, noting, however, that the exceptions are those also under military rule, including Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea and tiny Cape Verde.

He criticised the junta’s announcement that it had elements to put Bazoum, who is being detained, on trial for treason.

The United Nations, European Union and ECOWAS have all expressed concern over the conditions of his detention.

“The irony of it is that somebody who is in a hostage situation himself…is being charged with treason. When he committed that high treason is everybody’s guess,” Musah said.

Niger has strategic importance beyond West Africa because of its role as a hub for foreign troops involved in the fight against Islamist insurgents in the Sahel region and its uranium and oil reserves.

Western countries fear the junta could follow the lead of neighbouring Mali, where the military government threw out French troops and instead invited in mercenaries from Russia’s Wagner group, which has welcomed the coup in Niger.

There had been very stout opposition from both individuals and groups, especially in Northern Nigeria, against military invasion of Niger Republic.

Aside from opposition from such groups as the National Supreme Council for Islaimc Affairs, NSCIA, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, JNI, Northern Elders Forum, NEF, to military operations in Niger, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, have also kicked against it.

In Niger’s capital, Niamey, where large crowds have taken part in protests against ECOWAS and in favour of the coup leaders, residents have also rejected the idea of an outside intervention to reinstate the elected president and civilian government.

“I’m not afraid because I know our armed forces are well prepared to deal with any eventuality. ECOWAS is manipulated by foreign powers. When we see the reactions of France since the coup and especially the harshness of ECOWAS I can only think that these are coordinated actions between France and ECOWAS,” said radio technician Omar Yaye.

However, France, Niger’s former colonial ruler, has denied the junta’s accusation that it is seeking to destabilise the country or that it had violated its airspace, insisting on supporting ECOWAS efforts to restore constitutional order.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Religion

PFN Bares Mind on Forthcoming Election Tribunal Ruling, ECOWAS

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By Dayo Adu

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, has called on politicians and the entire citizens to accept the verdict of the Presidential Election Tribunal when declared to enhance the healing and development of Nigeria.

The body of Christian clerics gave the advice at a press conference marking the end of its three days Executive Retreat in Ibadan.

The PFN National President, Bishop Wale Oke, explained that the keenly contested 2023 general election almost split the nation from top to bottom, hence the need for political gladiators to bury their hatchets to allow the pronouncement of the tribunal put a rest to their grievances.

Bishop Oke, who lamented the economic hardship of Nigerians, called on President Bola Tinubu to relieve the citizens of their pains.

The PFN President while expressing optimism over the current situation in the country, urged President Tinubu not to witch hunt any citizen but to focus on making Nigeria a more virile and prosperous nation.

He enjoined the newly appointed ministers, when inaugurated, to support the president in order to provide solution to the economic hardship currently being faced in the country.

Commenting on ECOWAS’ decision on coup by the Junta in Niger Republic, the PFN through its Director of Diaspora Operations, Bishop Goddy Okafor, advised the heads of states and top diplomats of west African countries to utilize strong economic as well as diplomatic pressure rather than military force.

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Security

Niger: ECOWAS Defence Chiefs Activate Standby Force

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The Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff of the Economic Community of West African States has commenced the activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force for the restoration of constitutional order in the Republic of Niger.

A statement by the ECOWAS commission on Wednesday said the action was a follow-up to the directive of the Authority of Heads of State and Government at its Extraordinary Summit on August 10 in the FCT, Nigeria’s capital.

The statement said the Chiefs of Defence Staff will be having an extraordinary meeting in Accra, Ghana from the 17 of August to finalise plans for the deployment of Force.

Volunteer force

Meanwhile, Nigeriens say they are preparing for war against regional countries that threaten to invade, three weeks after soldiers ousted the nation’s democratically elected president.

Residents in the capital, Niamey, were said to be calling for the mass recruitment of volunteers to assist the army in battling the ECOWAS ‘army’.

The initiative, spearheaded by a group of locals in Niamey, aims to recruit tens of thousands of volunteers from across the country to register for the Volunteers for the Defence of Niger.

A recruitment drive will be launched Saturday in Niamey and in cities that share a border with Nigeria and Benin, two countries, that have said they would participate in an intervention to restore democratic rule in NIger.

Abdullahi Lamino

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Foreign

Niger: Proposed Military Intervention Splits ECOWAS  Parliament

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The Economic Community of West African States Parliament was divided over the actions that should be taken to address the Niger coup.

While some parliamentarians of ECOWAS were in support of military action against the Niger junta, others were against it.

Twenty-two parliamentarians took part in the virtual extraordinary meeting on Saturday to discuss the political crisis in Niger Republic.

While some of the parliament spoke in support of dialogue and diplomacy, others called for actions that would actually stem the rise in military government within the region.

Details later…..

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

Foreign

US Backs ECOWAS’ Decision on Niger

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The United States has backed the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in calling for the restoration of democracy in Niger Republic.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, in a statement, said the United States was pleased with the determination of ECOWAS to explore all options for the peaceful resolution of the crisis.

“Democracy is the best foundation for development, social cohesion, and stability in Niger. We stand with the Nigerien people in working toward these goals.

“We echo the ECOWAS condemnation of the illegal detention of President Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and members of the government, as well as the unacceptable conditions under which they are being held, and call for their immediate release. Like ECOWAS, the United States will hold the Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) accountable for the safety and security of President Bazoum, his family, and detained members of the government,” Blinken said.

The Nation/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Foreign

Niger: ECOWAS Troops on Standby, Junta Threatens to kill Bazoum

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The safety of ousted Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum may not be guaranteed as the junta which overthrew his government has reportedly threatened to kill him should the Economic Community of West African States attempt any military intervention to restore democracy in the francophone country.

The junta revealed their dark plot to murder the deposed President to a top United States diplomat, two Western officials confirmed to the Associated Press on Thursday.

The threat is coming on the heels of the resolution of the ECOWAS to deploy troops in Niger following the refusal of the military leaders to restore democracy despite the sanctions imposed on them and their collaborators by the regional body.

Speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, a Western military official said representatives of the junta told the US under Secretary of State, Victoria Nuland of the threat to Bazoum during her visit to the country on Monday.

According to AP, a US official confirmed the account, also speaking on condition of anonymity, because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

Bazoum, who was deposed on July 26, is being held hostage at his residence.

However, rising from a meeting of the ECOWAS Heads of States and Government in Abuja on Thursday, the President of ECOWAS, Omar Touray, said the bloc had directed the deployment of a “standby force” to restore democracy in Niger after the coup.

But Touray gave no details about the make-up, location and proposed date of deployment for the military intervention force.

Financing had been discussed and “appropriate measures have been taken,” he disclosed.

Reading the resolutions of the ECOWAS on the military junta in Niger at the end of the commission’s extra-ordinary summit, he also called on the African Union, partner countries and institutions to support the decision taken by the sub-regional body.

ECOWAS said all efforts made to hold dialogues with the military junta had been defiantly rejected by the coup leaders as they condemned the continuous detention of Bazoum and his family members.

Before taking the decision, the authority explained that it considered the memorandum presented by the President of the ECOWAS Commission on the current situation in the Republic of Niger, ECOWAS engagement since the last extraordinary summit; the reports of the envoys sent to Niger and various other places and recommendations of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff.

It also extensively discussed the latest development in Niger since the last extra-ordinary summit was held on July 30, noting that all diplomatic efforts made by ECOWAS in resolving the crisis had been defiantly repelled by the military leadership, including the one-week ultimatum given for the restoration of constitutional order in Niger.

The ECOWAS President said the regional body decided as follows: ‘’Reiterates its strong condemnation of the attempted coup d’etat and the continued illegal detention of President Mohammed Bazoam, his family and members of his government

“Further condemns the condition in which President Bazoum is being detained and hold the CNSP fully and solely responsible for the safety, security and physical integrity of President Bazoum, members of his family and government.

“Uphold all measures and principles agreed upon by the extra-ordinary summit held on Niger on 30th July 2023; Underscore the determination of the ECOWAS authority to keep all options on the table for the peaceful resolution of the crisis.

“Enforce all measures in particular border closures and strict travel bans and assets freeze on all persons or groups of individuals whose actions hinder all peaceful efforts aimed at ensuring the smooth and complete restoration of constitutional order.’’

It further warned member states who by their action directly or indirectly hindered the peaceful resolution of the crisis in Niger about the consequences for their action before the community.

BBC/Adebukola Aluko

Security

ECOWAS Continues Deliberations on Niger Crisis in Abuja

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Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States’, ECOWAS, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, is currently presiding over an Extraordinary Summit of the regional body on the Political Situation in Niger Republic.

The summit at the State House Conference Center in Abuja is discussing recent developments in Niger Republic and deciding on the next steps after the junta’s removal of President Mohamed Bazoum.

Following the last ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on July 30 in Abuja, sanctions were imposed on Niger, particularly on the coupists. The immediate release of President Bazoum, his family, and government members who are currently detained by the military was demanded.

Reading out the sanctions at the end of that Summit, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, had said “the following measures are to be applied with immediate effect. One, closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger. Two, institution of ECOWAS no-fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger.

“Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member-states and Niger. Freeze all service transactions, including energy transactions. Freeze assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks Freeze of the assets of the Niger state and the state enterprises and parastatals in commercial banks.

“Suspension of measure from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly, EBID. Call WAMU (West African Monetary Union) and all other regional bodies to implement this decision.

“Impose travel ban and asset freeze for the military officials involved in the coup attempt. The same applies to their family members and the civilians who accept to participate in any institutions or government established by these military officials”, the Authority said.

In an effort to de-escalate the crisis and avert any potential armed intervention, various stakeholders from Nigeria and Niger have been working together to advocate for a diplomatic approach and continued negotiations with both the ECOWAS and the military junta in Niger.

One of the stakeholders, former Emir Sanusi, speaking to State House Correspondents on Wednesday after his meeting with President Tinubu, said he went on the peace mission voluntarily, understanding his responsibility as a leader.

Sanusi emphasised that resolving the crisis requires efforts beyond just governments.

“I came to brief him on the details of my discussions with leaders of Niger. We’ll continue to do our best to bring the two parties together to improve understanding. This is the time for public diplomacy, it’s not a matter that we leave to governments, all Nigerians, all Nigeriens need to be involved to find a solution that works for Africa, a solution that works for Niger that works for Nigeria, and a solution that works for humanity”, he said.

Asked if he was a government emissary on the mission, he said “no, I was not sent by the government. Government officials were aware I was going, but it was my personal initiative, using my personal contacts to get there and I will continue to do my best. It is my duty as a leader to do that”.

Earlier today, however, the Abdourahamane Tchiani-led junta, announced a 21-member cabinet, to be led by Ali Mahaman Liman Zeine, who was appointed as Prime Minister by the military.

Among the Presidents and heads of government attending the meeting are: President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco of Guinea Bissau, President Everiste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, and President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire.

Others are President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritinia, President Nana Akofo-Ado of Ghana, President Macky Sall of Senegal, and President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic.

Those yet to arrive are: Togo. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé Eyadéma, and President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.

Tinubu’s Full Speech at Second ECOWAS Summit On Niger Coup

Your Excellency, the President of the ECOWAS Commission;

Your Excellency, President of the African Union Commission;

Your Excellency, President of the UEMOA Commission;

The Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations in West Africa and the Sahel; and

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

1. Let me commence by welcoming you all to the Second (2nd) Extraordinary Summit on the Socio-Political Situation in the Republic of Niger, within the space of ten days. Your presence here, despite the short notice, demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our esteemed community to finding a lasting solution to the political situation in the Republic of Niger.

2. Today, we gather with a profound sense of urgency and firm determination, building upon the commitments made during our first Extraordinary Summit, on the grave political crisis befalling our sister nation. During that initial meeting, we voiced our solidarity with the people of Niger and their democratically elected President, H.E Mohamed Bazoum, by condemning the military take over and the unjust detention of their democratically elected President.

Your Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

3. As you may recall, we called on the junta to rescind its decision of toppling a legitimate government. We proceeded to impose sanctions with the hope that this resolute measure would serve as a catalyst for the restoration of the constitutional order in Niger. Regrettably, the seven-day ultimatum we issued during the first Summit has not yielded the desired outcome. We have also made diligent efforts through the deployment of various ECOWAS mediation teams, to engage the military junta for a peaceful resolution of the political situation. One of the facilitators, former Head of State of Nigeria, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, would update us on the outcome of his mission to Niamey.

4. Similarly, as part of a coherent diplomatic initiatives, Special Envoys were dispatched to non-ECOWAS nations, particularly Libya and Algeria. During these engagements, the Envoy designated for Libya had the privilege of an audience with the President of Libya. This discourse resulted in an unequivocal expression of support for the resolutions adopted by ECOWAS aimed at restoring constitutional governance in Niger. In Algeria, the Envoy was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the President of the country. These initiatives are aimed at presenting a cohesive and united stance regarding the ongoing circumstances in Niger, thus showing a collaborative and concerted approach among African nations.

Your Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

5. Following the resolution of our previous Extraordinary Summit to initiate a meeting of the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defense Staff, the meeting of the Chiefs of Staff Committee was duly held from 2nd to 4thAugust, 2023. The outcome of that meeting, as well as a Memorandum by the President of the ECOWAS Commission on current socio-political developments in Niger, will be presented during this Summit. These will offer critical insights that will inform our collective decision-making process at this meeting.

6. Today’s Summit provides a significant opportunity to meticulously review and assess the progress made since our last gathering. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of our interventions and identify any gaps or challenges that may have hindered progress. Only through this comprehensive assessment can we collectively chart a sustainable path towards lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in Niger.

Moreso, in reaffirming our relentless commitment to democracy, human rights, and the well-being of the people of Niger, it is crucial that we prioritize diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the bedrock of our approach. We must engage all parties involved, including the coup leaders, in earnest discussions to convince them to relinquish power and reinstate President Bazoum. It is our duty to exhaust all avenues of engagement to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance in Niger.

7. More specifically, as leaders of our respective nations, we must recognize that the political crisis in Niger not only poses a threat to the stability of the nation but also has far-reaching implications for the entire West African region. By remaining steadfast in our adherence to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law, we can restore peace, stability, and prosperity in the Republic of Niger, thereby fostering an environment conducive to growth and development for all.

Esteemed Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

8. I am confident that this 2nd ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on the Socio-Political Situation in the Republic of Niger will be a defining moment in our journey towards a stronger, more resilient, and integrated West Africa. Let us seize this opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow Africans as we strive to build a future defined by peace, progress, and prosperity.

9. In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to each of you for your attention to this critical issue. I trust that our deliberations will be productive and fruitful, leading us to find an amicable solution to the political crisis in Niger. As we continue to work together in solidarity and harmony, we can ensure a prosperous future for the entire West African region.

10. With these remarks, I hereby declare this Extraordinary Summit open.

Thank you all, for your attention.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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News

Eight ECOWAS Leaders Arrive Abuja over Niger

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Eight leaders of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, have arrived in Abuja ahead of the summit which is centered on the coup in Niger republic.

As of the time of filing this report, the eight leaders that have arrived are President Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), President.Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco (Guinea Bissau), President Everiste Ndayishimiye (Burundi), President Alassane Ouattara (Cote d’Ivoire), President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritinia), President Nana Akofo-Ado (Ghana), President Macky Sall (Senegal) and President Patrice Talon (Benin).

The leaders currently being expected are, the President of Togo, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé Eyadéma and President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.

It was earlier reported that leaders from the West African bloc, ECOWAS, would meet on Thursday for an emergency summit on the coup in Niger after the country’s military chiefs defied an ultimatum to restore the elected president.

Two weeks after the coup that toppled Mohamed Bazoum, the ECOWAS said it was seeking a diplomatic solution but has not ruled out using force to resolve the crisis.

Important decisions are expected from the gathering in Nigeria’s capital Abuja, according to a statement from the 15-nation organisation on Tuesday.

Struggling to stem a cascade of coups among its members since 2020, the bloc gave the troops who seized power on July 26 until last Sunday to reinstate Bazoum or face the potential use of force.

But the coup leaders remained defiant and the deadline passed without action.

In their latest show of resistance against international pressure, the military leaders named a new government, according to a decree read out on national television on Thursday.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Foreign

Niger Deadline: Italy Urges ECOWAS to Extend Time-frame

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Italy has called on the Economic Community of West African States to prolong the time-frame for the reinstallation of the deposed president of Niger.

According to report, this counsel was offered on Monday, by Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani in an interview.

“The only way is the diplomatic one. I hope that the ultimatum of the Economic Community of West African States, which expired last night at midnight, will be extended today,” Tajani said during the interview

Due to concerns of potential military involvement from the West African regional group, Niger reportedly temporarily shut down its airspace starting Sunday.

This response came about because coup leaders refused to meet the deadline for restoring President Mohammed Bazoum, who remains detained.

Prior to this, numerous supporters of the junta gathered at a stadium in Niamey, the capital, showing their approval of the decision to resist external demands for stepping down by Sunday, subsequent to the seizure of power on July 26th.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Niger: Senate Tells President Tinubu’s to Tread Softly  

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The Senate has asked the Chairman of the Economic  Community of  West  African  States,  ECOWAS and other leaders of the region to tread softly in addressing the political quagmire in Niger Republic.

Rising from a closed-door session that lasted close to two hours to discuss the letter written to the Senate on Friday by President  Bola  Tinubu on the decisions taken by the regional body, the Senate asked ECOWAS to strengthen political and diplomatic options and other means to resolve the political compass in Niger Republic.

The Senate while condemning the Niger coup in totality, commended the chairman, President Bola Tinubu and other Heads of State of the other States of ECOWAS for their prompt response and the positions taken on the unfortunate development in Niger Republic. 

Reading the resolutions of the senators after the meeting, the President of the Senate, Godswill  Akpabio, said that “the Senate recognises that President Tinubu via his correspondence has not asked for the approval of the parliament of this Senate to go to war as erroneously suggested in some quarters.

“Rather Mr President has expressed a wish to respectfully solicit the support of the National Assembly in the successful implementation of the resolutions of the ECOWAS as outlined in the said communication. 

“The Senate calls on the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the chairman of ECOWAS to further encourage other leaders of ECOWAS to strengthen political and diplomatic options and other means intending to resolve the political compass in Niger Republic.

“The National Assembly to the ECOWAS under the leadership of President Tinubu in resolving the political situation in Niger and returning the country to democratic governance in the nearest future. 

“The leadership of the Senate is mandated to further engage with the president and commander in chief with on behalf of the Senate and the entire National Assembly on how best to resolve the issue given the hitherto existing cordial relationship between Nigerieans and Nigerians. 

“Finally, the Senate calls on the ECOWAS parliament to rise to the occasion by equally condemning this coup and also positing solutions to resolving this compass as soon as possible.”

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Foreign

Coup: Military Option Possible, ECOWAS Warns Niger’s Junta

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West African leaders have threatened military action against Niger’s military junta after it took power in a coup last week

The leaders gave the junta seven days to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum, who is being held captive.

Earlier, the junta warned it would resist any “plan of aggression against Niger” by regional or Western powers.

Meanwhile hundreds of coup supporters protested outside the French embassy in the capital Niamey.

Leaders from Ecowas, the bloc of West African nations, held crisis talks in Nigeria on Sunday to discuss the latest coup – which follows army takeovers in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso.

A statement read out after the summit said that Ecowas had “zero tolerance” for coups.

The regional bloc would “take all measures necessary to restore constitutional order” if its demands were not met within a week.

“Such measures may include the use of force”, and military chiefs are to meet “immediately” to plan for an intervention, the statement added.

The West African leaders also announced the immediate enforcement of a no-fly zone over Niger for all commercial flights, the closure of all land borders with the country, and the imposition of financial sanctions against the junta.

Ahead of their meeting, Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani – the head of the presidential guards unit who has declared himself Niger’s new leader – warned Ecowas and unnamed Western nations against stepping in.

“We once again reiterate to Ecowas or any other adventurer our firm determination to defend our fatherland,” the statement, which was read out on TV, said.

The coup has prompted concern that Niger, a former French colony, could pivot towards Russia.

The ousted president had worked closely with both regional and Western nations to fight militant Islamists in Niger.

Meanwhile Burkina Faso and Mali both moved closer to Russia after their own coups.

In Niamey, some of the protesters outside the French embassy chanted “Long live Russia”, “Long live Putin” and “Down with France”, AFP news agency reports.

France would not tolerate any attack on its interests in Niger, and would respond in an “immediate and intractable manner”, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said in a statement.

Niger’s coup has been condemned by Western nations, but welcomed by the leader of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has reportedly described it as a triumph.

“What happened in Niger is nothing other than the struggle of the people of Niger with their colonisers,” he was quoted as saying on a Wagner-affiliated Telegram channel, although his comments have not been independently verified.

In Mali, the junta has brought in Wagner to help it fight militant Islamists.

France, the former colonial power, announced the withdrawal of its troops last year amid growing hostility from the junta.

It subsequently moved its regional military headquarters to Niger.

In June, Mali’s junta said the UN’s 12,000 peacekeepers also had to leave following a decade of countering Islamist militants.

The UN agreed, saying the withdrawal would be completed by the end of the year.

On Saturday, France said it had suspended all development aid and budgetary support to Niger. The European Union and the US have made a similar decision.

BBC/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Security

ECOWAS Decries Attempted Coup in Niger

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The Economic Community of West African States, Wednesday condemned in strong terms “attempted coup d’état in Niger.

In a statement posted on its website, the regional body called on the “coup plotters” to free the democratically elected president, Mohammed Bazoum.

“ECOWAS has received the news of an attempted coup d’Etat in Niger with shock and consternation. ECOWAS condemns in the strongest terms the attempt to seize power by force and calls on the coup plotters to free the democratically- elected President of the Republic immediately and without any condition.

“ECOWAS and the international community will hold all those involved in the plot responsible for the security and safety of the President, his family, members of the government and the general public.”

Niger, a landlocked West African state has so far experienced four coups since independence from France in 1960 as well as numerous other attempts on power.

Access was sealed off both to President Bazoum’s official home and offices in the presidential complex in Niamey.

Bazoum was democratically elected in 2021.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Politics

Tinubu Urges AU to Resist New Scramble for Africa

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President Bola Tinubu says the forces that plundered Africa in the past and still seek to impede its progress today will not find easy inroads into the continent.

Tinubu said Africa was now strong and its leaders would no longer remain passive as they worked to harness their vast resources to better their respective countries.

“But here and now, let it be said to whomever the new scramblers might be, that our continent may be old, but our spirit is new. And it is strong. The bad that took place in the past must stay there. It shall never be repeated,” Tinubu told his counterparts at the Fifth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital.

The forum also featured deliberations amongst the various regional economic communities, the regional mechanisms and the African Union Member-States.

The President’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Dele Alake, revealed this in a statement he signed on Sunday titled: ‘In maiden speech at AU, President Tinubu affirms Africa’s unity and strength, rejects notion of a new scramble for continent.’

In his address titled: ‘Address on Status of Regional Integration in ECOWAS,’ Tinubu emphasised the need for Africa to overcome its challenges and work towards a prosperous future, focusing on inclusive growth, good governance and leveraging the opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Area.

However, the President vehemently rejected the notion of a new scramble for Africa, noting that “some observers assert a new scramble for Africa is afoot and it is much like the old scramble that plundered our continent.”

The Nigerian leader called for good governance to ensure a prosperous future for Africa, free from the exploitations of the past.

 “As Africans, we forge ahead, no matter the barriers thrust before us. The world we inhabit is often unkind and uncertain. History and current global difficulties argue against our future success.

“Lessons of the past few years teach us that the world economy can be disrupted in ways that halt progress and invite downturn. Our nations can suddenly find themselves in dire situations if we choose to be passive observers of our fate.

“Such passivity does not commend itself to me. I will not listen to it. Neither should any African. The challenges we face mean that governance will be difficult,” Tinubu said.

Harping on his message to uphold democracy in West Africa, the Nigerian leader, as ECOWAS Chairman, announced plans to strengthen the bloc’s Standby Force to deter coups and combat terrorism in the sub-region.

He argued that while leaders sat to discuss vital economic matters, it would be impossible to implement the outcomes of the discussions unless due consideration was given to the instability and conflict ravaging many African states.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Foreign

Burkina Faso Coup: Ousted Leader Runs to Togo

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The Togolese government has confirmed that ousted Burkina Faso leader, Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba fled to Togo following a military coup.

A report on Monday by France 24 said Togo’s Minister of Communication and government spokesman, Akodah Ayewouadan had confirmed that Damiba was in the country as part of its commitment to “peace in the sub-region”.

The report stated that the confirmation came as the West African bloc, ECOWAS, plans to send envoys to Burkina Faso after troops toppled Damiba in the country’s second putsch this year.

“Togo, like ECOWAS, welcomes the fact that the spirit of peace has prevailed,” a Togolese official told AFP.

“The reception of… Damiba is part of this spirit.”

The streets of Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou were quiet on Monday after a two-day showdown between military rivals, media reports have said.

The ousted Burkinabe leader’s departure followed mediations between Damiba – who himself took power in a January putsch – and the new self-proclaimed leader, Ibrahim Traoré, by the religious and community leaders.

On Sunday, religious leaders who had mediated between the factions said that Damiba had offered his resignation as long as his security and other conditions were met.

A junta representative later announced on state television that their leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, officially has been named head of state following the Friday coup that ousted Damiba.

Their power grab marked Burkina Faso‘s second military coup this year, deepening fears that the political chaos could divert attention from an Islamic insurgency whose violence has killed thousands and forced 2 million to flee their homes.

FRCN / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Security

Terrorists displaced 5.5 Million, killed 14,500 – ECOWAS

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The Economic Community of West African States says no fewer than 14,500 people have been killed by terrorists in the West African region in four and a half years.

According to the outgoing President of the ECOWAS Commission, Jean-Claude Brou, the insecurity in the region has also displaced 5.5 million people.

Brou, who will assume the position of the Governor of the West African Bank, spoke in Abuja during the handover of power to the new management of the Commission led by President Omar Touray.

 He said, “First of all, the deterioration of the security situation has caused havoc not only in the Sahel area, affecting Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and the North- East of Nigeria, but it soon expanded to the coastal zone, hitting Côte d’Ivoire, Benin and Togo.

“Terrorist attacks and herds of bandits plunged these countries into mourning, with close to 14,500 dead in four and a half years, threatening the peace of rural population, and forcing people to seek shelter away from their home areas.

“Thus, the number of refugees and internally displaced people in our region reached about 5.5m persons who are in need of humanitarian assistance.”

The commission, he said, has reached out to provide assistance to many of them, as well as to victims of natural disasters.

https://ceeb574c4a89d70cedb216a1a9d91c25.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html He noted that a regional action plan to combat terrorism in the region has been followed.

Brou said the plan required sustained commitment, including financial support from member states for it to yield expected results.

“Regional action plan to combat terrorism in West Africa has been elaborated and is being implemented. It will necessitate sustained commitment, including financial support from member states to produce the expected results in the medium to long term,” he explained.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Foreign

ECOWAS Leaders lift Sanctions on Mali

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West African leaders have announced the lifting of sanctions against the military regime in Mali.

The heads of state of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) meeting in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, accepted a proposal by the Malian military to hold elections and return to civilian rule by March 2024.

The bloc had imposed crippling economic sanctions after army officers staged two coups in less than a year in August 2020 and May 2021.

It also accepted a two-year timetable for the restoration of democracy in Burkina Faso, but told Guinea, a third country which has witnessed a military takeover, it would face economic sanctions unless it could speed up its proposed three-year transition back to democracy.

BBC/Adebukola Aluko