The recent emergency summit held by ECOWAS initiated on a positive note, with Chairman Bola Tinubu advocating for diplomatic avenues and negotiations. However, as the summit progressed, news surfaced that ECOWAS had decided to activate its standby force to reinstate constitutional order in Niger Republic.
In his announcement of the resolutions, President of ECOWAS, Omar Alieu Touray, called for support from the African Union, partner nations, and institutions for the sub-regional body's decision. Despite ECOWAS' attempts at dialogue, the Niger Republic military junta staunchly rejected these efforts, citing their condemnation of the continued detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members. The committee of the Chiefs of Defence Staff was then directed to immediately activate the ECOWAS Standby Force to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic. This trajectory hints at an escalation of tensions.
Niger Republic is already grappling with unprecedented sanctions, including blocked financial transactions, halted food and drug imports from Nigeria, and even power supply cutoff – a violation of treaty obligations – leaving hospitals incapacitated and patients at risk. The longstanding amicable relations between Nigeria and Niger are rapidly deteriorating within a short span.
Predictably, a significant portion of Nigerien public opinion is expressing dissatisfaction with Nigeria due to the threat of armed intervention using the ECOWAS Standby Force to restore democratic order. A growing campaign, backed in part by the Russian Wagner Group, is portraying opposition to military rule as equivalent to endorsing French and American imperialism. This narrative casts ECOWAS and Nigeria as puppets of Western powers. Despite this, Nigeria's stance in safeguarding democracy aligns with the ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, reflecting shared values that must be upheld.
France's persistent colonial influence, particularly through its Francafrique policy, has perpetuated exploitation in Africa, resulting in poverty and underdevelopment. The need for a revolt against neo-colonialism is gaining traction. France's refusal to permit its former colonies to establish independent currencies underscores its dominant control. However, while fighting neo-colonialism, Niger and other African nations must ensure that democracy is not sacrificed. A balance between freedom and democracy is essential.
Over the years, France has militarily intervened more than 50 times in African countries to safeguard its economic interests, especially concerning the CFA Franc. France's reliance on Africa for global influence is well-known, with the imposition of treaties that maintain its dominance. As Niger counters French influence, it's vital to recognize that ECOWAS neighbors, including Nigeria, aim to support their struggle for freedom from France and the democratic exercise of their sovereignty.
Niger should also bear in mind its vulnerabilities and past reliance on Nigerian assistance. While Wagner Group might promise aid, it's crucial for Niger to be pragmatic and cooperative in seeking a constructive path forward.
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