<p>The US State Department is getting ready to officially designate the military seizure of power in Niger as a coup d'etat in the coming week, according to three US officials quoted by media outlets. This decision could have significant repercussions for US cooperation with Niger, a vital counter-terrorism partner in the West African region. The US is planning to announce the suspension of certain forms of aid to Niger, as confirmed by an official and another individual familiar with the discussions, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>US military presence to continue</strong></h2>

<p>The US embassy in Niger will remain operational, and US military forces will maintain their legal presence in the country, the officials reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-offers-support-to-netanyahu-says-us-will-always-have-israels-back-643840">Biden offers support to Netanyahu, says 'US will always have Israel's back'</a></p>

<p>However, the Pentagon is evaluating how this change will affect the approximately 1,000 US troops stationed in Niger. It is reportedly possible that some of these troops will likely be transitioning to a more limited role in intelligence gathering.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/magnitude-62-earthquake-hits-western-afghanistan-aftershock-follows-643601">Afghanistan: Death toll from 6.3 magnitude earthquake jumps to over 1,000</a></p>

<p>US State Department spokesperson said, “As we continue our diplomatic engagements to preserve civilian rule in Niger, we are continuing to assess additional next steps but have nothing to preview at this time."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Selective assistance</strong></h2>

<p>The US administration may continue providing essential, life-saving assistance while suspending other forms of aid to the Nigerien government.&nbsp;Nigerien military leaders seized power by overthrowing the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, in July.</p>

<p>However, the US had refrained from formally labeling the event as a coup, as doing so would trigger restrictions on certain foreign aid to Niger, particularly security assistance funding.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/explained-israel-palestine-and-a-history-of-conflict-643881">Explained: Israel-Palestine and a history of conflict</a></strong></p>

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<p>The US has been supporting Nigerien forces for a decade in their fight against terrorists in the Sahel region, operating from several bases within Niger. Since 2012, the US has provided over $350 million in military assistance equipment and training programs, making it one of the largest security assistance initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa,&nbsp;according to the US Embassy in Niamey.&nbsp;</p>

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The US State Department is getting ready to officially designate the military seizure of power in Niger as a coup d'etat in the coming week, according to three US officials quoted by media outlets.

The US State Department is getting ready to officially designate the military seizure of power in Niger as a coup d'etat in the coming week, according to three US officials quoted by media outlets. This decision could have significant repercussions for US cooperation with Niger, a vital counter-terrorism partner in the West African region. The US is planning to announce the suspension of certain forms of aid to Niger, as confirmed by an official and another individual familiar with the discussions, reports said. US military presence to continue The US embassy in Niger will remain operational, and US military forces will maintain their legal presence in the country, the officials reportedly said. Also Read | Biden offers support to Netanyahu, says 'US will always have Israel's back' However, the Pentagon is evaluating how this change will affect the approximately 1,000 US troops stationed in Niger. It is reportedly possible that some of these troops will likely be transitioning to a more limited role in intelligence gathering. Also Read | Afghanistan: Death toll from 6.3 magnitude earthquake jumps to over 1,000 US State Department spokesperson said, “As we continue our diplomatic engagements to preserve civilian rule in Niger, we are continuing to assess additional next steps but have nothing to preview at this time." Selective assistance The US administration may continue providing essential, life-saving assistance while suspending other forms of aid to the Nigerien government. Nigerien military leaders seized power by overthrowing the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, in July. However, the US had refrained from formally labeling the event as a coup, as doing so would trigger restrictions on certain foreign aid to Niger, particularly security assistance funding. Watch | Explained: Israel-Palestine and a history of conflict × The US has been supporting Nigerien forces for a decade in their fight against terrorists in the Sahel region, operating from several bases within Niger. Since 2012, the US has provided over $350 million in military assistance equipment and training programs, making it one of the largest security assistance initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the US Embassy in Niamey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US to officially label Niger military seizure as coup, troops presence may affect

<p>The African Union (AU) has suspended Niger from the bloc with immediate effect in response to the coup ousting President Mohamed Bazoum’s government.</p>

<p>The Peace and Security Council said that Niger would remain suspended until civilian rule is restored in the country.</p>

<p>The council announced the decision on Tuesday (Aug 22) following a meeting in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.</p>

<p>It comes after several Western countries cut aid to Niger following the July 26 coup. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also imposed sanctions and last week, agreed on a “D-day” to begin a military intervention.</p>

<p>ECOWAS said the use of force would be the “last resort” after exhausting diplomatic channels for negotiation.</p>

<p>It agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger.</p>

<p>On Monday, it rejected a proposal by Niger’s military government to hold elections within three years.</p>

<h2><strong>Don't legitimise Niger's military government&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The AU said it was reviewing ECOWAS’s plan of military intervention and called on all of its member states and the international community to not undertake any action to legitimise Niger’s military government.</p>

<p>“We are studying the ECOWAS decision to prepare forces for deployment in Niger, and the African Commission will evaluate its repercussions,” the statement said.</p>

<p>“We strongly reject any external interference by any party or country in the affairs of the continent, including private military companies.”</p>

<p>The AU also reiterated calls for the coup leaders to immediately release elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been detained since the coup, and return to their barracks.</p>

<h2><strong>Mali, Burkina Faso extend support to Niger</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>As the prospect of the use of force by the ECOWAS looms large, Mali and Burkina Faso—both ruled by the military junta— have pledged support to Niger, saying that any military intervention in their neighbour would be considered a "declaration of war" against their countries.</p>

<p>This is the fifth time Niger has fallen under military rule since the landlocked state gained independence from France in 1960.</p>

<p>In 2021, Bazoum won a landmark election, paving the way to the country's first peaceful transition of power.</p>

<p>He has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention.</p>

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The African Union (AU) has suspended Niger from the bloc with immediate effect in response to the coup ousting President Mohamed Bazoum’s government. The Peace and Security Council said that Niger would remain suspended until civilian rule is restored in the country.

The African Union (AU) has suspended Niger from the bloc with immediate effect in response to the coup ousting President Mohamed Bazoum’s government. The Peace and Security Council said that Niger would remain suspended until civilian rule is restored in the country. The council announced the decision on Tuesday (Aug 22) following a meeting in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa. It comes after several Western countries cut aid to Niger following the July 26 coup. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also imposed sanctions and last week, agreed on a “D-day” to begin a military intervention. ECOWAS said the use of force would be the “last resort” after exhausting diplomatic channels for negotiation. It agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger. On Monday, it rejected a proposal by Niger’s military government to hold elections within three years. Don't legitimise Niger's military government The AU said it was reviewing ECOWAS’s plan of military intervention and called on all of its member states and the international community to not undertake any action to legitimise Niger’s military government. “We are studying the ECOWAS decision to prepare forces for deployment in Niger, and the African Commission will evaluate its repercussions,” the statement said. “We strongly reject any external interference by any party or country in the affairs of the continent, including private military companies.” The AU also reiterated calls for the coup leaders to immediately release elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been detained since the coup, and return to their barracks. Mali, Burkina Faso extend support to Niger As the prospect of the use of force by the ECOWAS looms large, Mali and Burkina Faso—both ruled by the military junta— have pledged support to Niger, saying that any military intervention in their neighbour would be considered a "declaration of war" against their countries. This is the fifth time Niger has fallen under military rule since the landlocked state gained independence from France in 1960. In 2021, Bazoum won a landmark election, paving the way to the country's first peaceful transition of power. He has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

African Union suspends Niger from bloc over coup, calls on ECOWAS to review military action plan

<p>Amid rising show of support by the locals in Niger's capital Niamey for the military junta that took over the country last month, a delegation from the West African ECOWAS bloc arrived in Niger on Saturday, August 19.</p>

<p>The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed to find a peaceful solution rather than a military one despite posturing to the contrary the same day and the day before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Led by former Nigerian president Abdulsalami Abubakar, the delegation arrived in the capital early afternoon, a day after ECOWAS military chiefs expressed their readiness to intervene and reinstate the ousted president.</p>

<p>The ECOWAS&nbsp;has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a final measure to restore democracy in Niger following the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.</p>

<p>However, the organisation said it prefers for dialogue to resolve the crisis.</p>

<p>Shortly after the coup at the end of July, an earlier ECOWAS delegation, led by Abubakar&nbsp;attempted unsuccessfully to meet both the ousted President Bazoum and the coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-crisis-no-signs-of-opposition-to-junta-as-deadline-to-reverse-coup-ends-622918">Niger crisis: No signs of opposition to junta as deadline to reverse coup ends</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a source cited by the AFP, the ECOWAS&nbsp;intends to convey a strong message to the army officers and meet with Bazoum, who has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup.</p>

<p>ECOWAS Chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu issued a warning to Niamey on Friday, stating that there would be "serious consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to deteriorate, as reported by an EU official.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-time-for-action-west-african-leaders-threaten-intervention-in-niger-if-coup-is-not-reversed-in-a-week-620831">'It's time for action': West African leaders threaten intervention in Niger if coup is not reversed in a week</a></strong></p>

<p>On Saturday, thousands of people gathered outside the main stadium in Niamey to register as volunteer fighters or offer assistance in case the Niger junta needs support against potential military intervention from neighbouring countries.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Niger Crisis: ECOWAS decides an undisclosed 'D-day' for Niger intervention</b></p>

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<p>Some parents even brought their children to sign up, while enthusiastic groups of youth chanted in favour of the junta and against both ECOWAS and France, the country's former colonial ruler.</p>

<p>"We came here to enlist as soldiers. Many people around the country, our brothers our sisters, went out to call for soldiers. We are here since the morning. We want to thank our president (junta leader) for what he is doing right now,"&nbsp;Mohamed Djibou, a volunteer, can be heard as telling an AFP crew in a video interview.&nbsp;<br />
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Amid rising show of support by the locals in Niger's capital Niamey for the military junta that took over the country last month, a delegation from the West African ECOWAS bloc arrived in Niger on Saturday, August 19.

Amid rising show of support by the locals in Niger's capital Niamey for the military junta that took over the country last month, a delegation from the West African ECOWAS bloc arrived in Niger on Saturday, August 19. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) aimed to find a peaceful solution rather than a military one despite posturing to the contrary the same day and the day before. Led by former Nigerian president Abdulsalami Abubakar, the delegation arrived in the capital early afternoon, a day after ECOWAS military chiefs expressed their readiness to intervene and reinstate the ousted president. The ECOWAS has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a final measure to restore democracy in Niger following the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26. However, the organisation said it prefers for dialogue to resolve the crisis. Shortly after the coup at the end of July, an earlier ECOWAS delegation, led by Abubakar attempted unsuccessfully to meet both the ousted President Bazoum and the coup leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani. Also read | Niger crisis: No signs of opposition to junta as deadline to reverse coup ends According to a source cited by the AFP, the ECOWAS intends to convey a strong message to the army officers and meet with Bazoum, who has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup. ECOWAS Chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu issued a warning to Niamey on Friday, stating that there would be "serious consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to deteriorate, as reported by an EU official. Also read | 'It's time for action': West African leaders threaten intervention in Niger if coup is not reversed in a week On Saturday, thousands of people gathered outside the main stadium in Niamey to register as volunteer fighters or offer assistance in case the Niger junta needs support against potential military intervention from neighbouring countries. Also watch | Niger Crisis: ECOWAS decides an undisclosed 'D-day' for Niger intervention × Some parents even brought their children to sign up, while enthusiastic groups of youth chanted in favour of the junta and against both ECOWAS and France, the country's former colonial ruler. "We came here to enlist as soldiers. Many people around the country, our brothers our sisters, went out to call for soldiers. We are here since the morning. We want to thank our president (junta leader) for what he is doing right now," Mohamed Djibou, a volunteer, can be heard as telling an AFP crew in a video interview. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

West African leaders reach coup-hit Niger amid rising show of support for junta by locals

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidakcI4G7CzFve" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Niger coup leader General Abdourahamane Tiani said on Saturday (August 19) evening that neither the junta nor the citizens wanted war, and remained open to dialogue. In a televised address, General Tiani said, "I hereby reaffirm that our ambition is not to seize power. I also reaffirm our readiness to engage in any dialogue, as long as it takes into account the orientations desired by the proud and resilient people of Niger."</p>

<p>"In short, neither the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland nor the people of Niger want war and remain open to dialogue. But let there be no misunderstanding: should aggression be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park that some believe it to be. Indeed, they will find us facing 26 million Nigeriens," Tiani added.</p>

<h2><strong>Those imposing sanctions want to isolate Niger when...: Tiani</strong></h2>

<p>Coup leader Tiani also said that those who imposed sanctions and threatened to kill thousands of citizens hoped to divide them and impose their will against the people. "They think they can force us to accept by force what is profoundly unacceptable because it is contrary to our vital interests and cardinal values. They want to isolate our country at a time when our people most need community solidarity to better face terrorism and insecurity," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new PM says no harm will come to captive president Mohamed Bazoum</a></strong></p>

<p>The junta was pursuing its own agenda and would launch a national dialogue to consult on a transition back to democracy, which "should last no longer than three years," he further said.</p>

<p>Niger witnessed a coup on July 26. On Saturday, supporters of the junta were forced to halt a census of people willing to volunteer for non-military roles in defence against a possible intervention by West African powers.</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, thousands of supporters, mostly young men, massed outside a stadium in the capital Niamey hours before the scheduled start time of the event.</p>

<h2><strong>West African bloc meets ousted president Bazoum</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday, a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met Niger's ousted president Mohamed Bazoum and also held talks with junta leader General Tiani in Niamey. The ECOWAS has been pursuing diplomatic ways to reverse the coup.</p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, an ECOWAS source said that the delegation met the junta-appointed prime minister at Niamey airport and was due to hold talks with the self-declared authorities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Niger coup leader General Abdourahamane Tiani said on Saturday (August 19) evening that neither the junta nor the citizens wanted war, and remained open to dialogue.

Niger coup leader General Abdourahamane Tiani said on Saturday (August 19) evening that neither the junta nor the citizens wanted war, and remained open to dialogue. In a televised address, General Tiani said, "I hereby reaffirm that our ambition is not to seize power. I also reaffirm our readiness to engage in any dialogue, as long as it takes into account the orientations desired by the proud and resilient people of Niger." "In short, neither the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland nor the people of Niger want war and remain open to dialogue. But let there be no misunderstanding: should aggression be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park that some believe it to be. Indeed, they will find us facing 26 million Nigeriens," Tiani added. Those imposing sanctions want to isolate Niger when...: Tiani Coup leader Tiani also said that those who imposed sanctions and threatened to kill thousands of citizens hoped to divide them and impose their will against the people. "They think they can force us to accept by force what is profoundly unacceptable because it is contrary to our vital interests and cardinal values. They want to isolate our country at a time when our people most need community solidarity to better face terrorism and insecurity," he added. Also read | Niger's new PM says no harm will come to captive president Mohamed Bazoum The junta was pursuing its own agenda and would launch a national dialogue to consult on a transition back to democracy, which "should last no longer than three years," he further said. Niger witnessed a coup on July 26. On Saturday, supporters of the junta were forced to halt a census of people willing to volunteer for non-military roles in defence against a possible intervention by West African powers. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, thousands of supporters, mostly young men, massed outside a stadium in the capital Niamey hours before the scheduled start time of the event. West African bloc meets ousted president Bazoum On Saturday, a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) met Niger's ousted president Mohamed Bazoum and also held talks with junta leader General Tiani in Niamey. The ECOWAS has been pursuing diplomatic ways to reverse the coup. Speaking to Reuters, an ECOWAS source said that the delegation met the junta-appointed prime minister at Niamey airport and was due to hold talks with the self-declared authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Niger coup: Junta says open to dialogue, warns against aggression

<p>West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open.</p>

<p>The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger after generals toppled and detained Bazoum on July 26.</p>

<p>ECOWAS defence chiefs met this week in the Ghanaian capital Accra to fine-tune details of a potential military operation to restore Bazoum if ongoing negotiations with coup leaders fail.</p>

<p>"We are ready to go any time the order is given," said Abdel-Fatau Musah, an ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs and security.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></p>

<p>"The D-Day is also decided."</p>

<p>But the leaders also say they still favour dialogue and that ECOWAS could send a diplomatic mission to Niger on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Tomorrow there is the possibility of an ECOWAS mission going into Niger to continue to pursue the peaceful path to restoration of constitutional order," he said.</p>

<p>"We are ready to resolve the issue peacefully but it takes two to tango."</p>

<p>ECOWAS leaders say they have to act after Niger became the fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, following Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaros-legal-troubles-deepen-as-quote-authorises-probe-into-his-finances-626878">Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances</a></p>

<p>The Sahel region is struggling with growing jihadist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Frustration over the violence has in part prompted the military takeovers.</p>

<p>ECOWAS troops have intervened in other emergencies since 1990, including civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Ivory Coast, Benin and Nigeria are expected to contribute troops to a Niger mission.</p>

<h2><strong>'Grave consequences'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Bazoum, whose 2021 election was a landmark in Niger's troubled history, has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention.</p>

<p>ECOWAS chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Friday threatened Niamey with "grave consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to worsen under house arrest, an EU official said.</p>

<p>During a call to EU chief Charles Michel, Tinubu noted: "President Bazoum's detention conditions are deteriorating."</p>

<p>"Any further deterioration to his well-being status will have grave consequences."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Michel had renewed the European Union's "full support and backing of ECOWAS' decisions, as well as firm condemnation of the unacceptable coup de force in Niger".</p>

<p>Niger's military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, told The New York Times that the coup leaders would do Bazoum no harm.</p>

<p>"Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger," the most senior civilian in the new regime told the newspaper in an interview from Dakar.</p>

<h2><strong>Militarily risky</strong></h2>

<p>Details of the Niger operation have not been released and analysts say any intervention would be politically and militarily risky, especially for regional player Nigeria.</p>

<p>Nigeria is already struggling to contain violence from several armed groups at home, and leaders in the country's north have warned about spillover from Niger across the border if there is an intervention.</p>

<p>Niger's coup leaders have warned against any military strikes and defiantly threatened to charge Bazoum with treason. But they have also said they are open to talks.</p>

<p>The military-ruled governments in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso have also said an intervention in Niger would be seen as a declaration of war against them.</p>

<p>ECOWAS has already applied trade and financial sanctions on Niger while France, Germany and the United States have suspended aid programmes.</p>

<p>Germany's foreign ministry has also said it wants the EU to impose sanctions on the coup leaders, saying that Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had held talks with her French and US counterparts.</p>

<p>UN rights chief Volker Turk slammed the generals who seized power on "a whim", plunging Niger further into misery and stranding thousands of migrants.</p>

<p>"The very notion of freedoms in Niger is at stake," he said. "Rule-by-gun has no place in today's world."</p>

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West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open.

West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger after generals toppled and detained Bazoum on July 26. ECOWAS defence chiefs met this week in the Ghanaian capital Accra to fine-tune details of a potential military operation to restore Bazoum if ongoing negotiations with coup leaders fail. "We are ready to go any time the order is given," said Abdel-Fatau Musah, an ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs and security. Also Read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum "The D-Day is also decided." But the leaders also say they still favour dialogue and that ECOWAS could send a diplomatic mission to Niger on Saturday. "Tomorrow there is the possibility of an ECOWAS mission going into Niger to continue to pursue the peaceful path to restoration of constitutional order," he said. "We are ready to resolve the issue peacefully but it takes two to tango." ECOWAS leaders say they have to act after Niger became the fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, following Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea. Also Read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances The Sahel region is struggling with growing jihadist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Frustration over the violence has in part prompted the military takeovers. ECOWAS troops have intervened in other emergencies since 1990, including civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Ivory Coast, Benin and Nigeria are expected to contribute troops to a Niger mission. 'Grave consequences' Bazoum, whose 2021 election was a landmark in Niger's troubled history, has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention. ECOWAS chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Friday threatened Niamey with "grave consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to worsen under house arrest, an EU official said. During a call to EU chief Charles Michel, Tinubu noted: "President Bazoum's detention conditions are deteriorating." "Any further deterioration to his well-being status will have grave consequences." Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock? × Michel had renewed the European Union's "full support and backing of ECOWAS' decisions, as well as firm condemnation of the unacceptable coup de force in Niger". Niger's military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, told The New York Times that the coup leaders would do Bazoum no harm. "Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger," the most senior civilian in the new regime told the newspaper in an interview from Dakar. Militarily risky Details of the Niger operation have not been released and analysts say any intervention would be politically and militarily risky, especially for regional player Nigeria. Nigeria is already struggling to contain violence from several armed groups at home, and leaders in the country's north have warned about spillover from Niger across the border if there is an intervention. Niger's coup leaders have warned against any military strikes and defiantly threatened to charge Bazoum with treason. But they have also said they are open to talks. The military-ruled governments in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso have also said an intervention in Niger would be seen as a declaration of war against them. ECOWAS has already applied trade and financial sanctions on Niger while France, Germany and the United States have suspended aid programmes. Germany's foreign ministry has also said it wants the EU to impose sanctions on the coup leaders, saying that Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had held talks with her French and US counterparts. UN rights chief Volker Turk slammed the generals who seized power on "a whim", plunging Niger further into misery and stranding thousands of migrants. "The very notion of freedoms in Niger is at stake," he said. "Rule-by-gun has no place in today's world." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

West Africa military chiefs ready for intervention in Niger; ECOWAS to send diplomatic mission

<p>Supporters of the Nigerien military junta are raising calls for a mass mobilisation of citizens against a potential military action by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which favours the restoration of Mohamed Bazoum, the president of Niger deposed recently by the military junta.</p>

<p>The Guardian reported that the call for mobilisation of people was pushed by one of the civic society groups in the Nigerian capital Niamey. This group has come out in support of the coup. It has been tapped by the mutinous officers to whip up support for the coup and even to organise mass demonstrations.</p>

<p>Volunteers for the Defence of Niger, the civic society group, is now seeking tens of thousands of volunteers from across Niger to support the military junta.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s an eventuality. We need to be ready whenever it happens,” said Amsarou Bako, one of the founders of the group. He was quoted by Associated Press.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Niger: Russia's rising influence worries the west</strong></p>

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<p>The group has reportedly said that a recruitment drive will be launched on Saturday in Niamey in addition to other cities where the invasion force is likely to enter. Such points have been identified near the borders of Niger with Nigeria and Benin. Both of these countries have said that they would participate in an intervention.</p>

<p>Bako said that anyone 18 and over can register and the list of those who have registered will be given to the military junta. He said that the military junta is not involved in the recruitment drive, but was aware of such activities.</p>

<h2><strong>Niger troops die in jihadist attack</strong></h2>

<p>The Niger government said on Tuesday (August 15) that a jihadist attack claimed the lives of 17 Nigerien troops. The attack is seen to be indicative of the precarious security situation in the country.</p>

<p>An army detachment was "the victim of a terrorist ambush near the town of Koutougou" in the Tillaberi region near Burkina Faso on Tuesday, said a defence ministry statement published later that day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry added that another 20 soldiers had been wounded, six of them seriously. All the casualties have been evacuated to the capital Niamey.</p>

<p>The army said more than 100 assailants were "neutralised".</p>

<p>Africa's Sahel region, which includes Niger, has witnessed Jihadist insurgency for more than a decade. The insurgency first broke out in northern Mali in 2012. It spread to neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso in 2015.</p>

<p>The so-called "three borders" area between the three countries is regularly the scene of attacks by rebels affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Supporters of the Nigerien military junta are raising calls for a mass mobilisation of citizens against a potential military action by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which favours the restoration of Mohamed Bazoum, the president of Niger deposed recently by the military junta.

Supporters of the Nigerien military junta are raising calls for a mass mobilisation of citizens against a potential military action by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which favours the restoration of Mohamed Bazoum, the president of Niger deposed recently by the military junta. The Guardian reported that the call for mobilisation of people was pushed by one of the civic society groups in the Nigerian capital Niamey. This group has come out in support of the coup. It has been tapped by the mutinous officers to whip up support for the coup and even to organise mass demonstrations. Volunteers for the Defence of Niger, the civic society group, is now seeking tens of thousands of volunteers from across Niger to support the military junta. “It’s an eventuality. We need to be ready whenever it happens,” said Amsarou Bako, one of the founders of the group. He was quoted by Associated Press. Watch | Niger: Russia's rising influence worries the west × The group has reportedly said that a recruitment drive will be launched on Saturday in Niamey in addition to other cities where the invasion force is likely to enter. Such points have been identified near the borders of Niger with Nigeria and Benin. Both of these countries have said that they would participate in an intervention. Bako said that anyone 18 and over can register and the list of those who have registered will be given to the military junta. He said that the military junta is not involved in the recruitment drive, but was aware of such activities. Niger troops die in jihadist attack The Niger government said on Tuesday (August 15) that a jihadist attack claimed the lives of 17 Nigerien troops. The attack is seen to be indicative of the precarious security situation in the country. An army detachment was "the victim of a terrorist ambush near the town of Koutougou" in the Tillaberi region near Burkina Faso on Tuesday, said a defence ministry statement published later that day. The ministry added that another 20 soldiers had been wounded, six of them seriously. All the casualties have been evacuated to the capital Niamey. The army said more than 100 assailants were "neutralised". Africa's Sahel region, which includes Niger, has witnessed Jihadist insurgency for more than a decade. The insurgency first broke out in northern Mali in 2012. It spread to neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso in 2015. The so-called "three borders" area between the three countries is regularly the scene of attacks by rebels affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Niger junta supporters raise call for mass mobilisation as military action looms

<p>As the deadline to reinstate ousted Niger President Mohamed Bazoum draws close on Sunday, the military chiefs of West African nations finalised a military intervention plan and urged the troops to be ready if the coup leaders fail to agree to their demands.</p>

<p>The defence chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) — excluding Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea and Niger — gathered in Abuja, Nigeria, on Friday to discuss several measures.</p>

<p>Under the plan, the final decision on the modalities of the intervention has been left with the political leaders to decide, Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace and security, said.</p>

<h2><strong>‘We will make them handover power’</strong></h2>

<p>"All the elements that will go into any eventual intervention have been worked out here, including the resources needed, the how and when we are going deploy the force," he said at the close of a three-day meeting in Nigeria's capital Abuja, reports Reuters news agency.</p>

<p>Musa did not say if the ECOWAS would deploy troops to the coup-hit country, but he reiterated their earlier demand to reinstate Bazoum in the coming days or “we will make them handover to the civilian authorities.”</p>

<h2>Niger coup: Ecowas threatens use of force on coup leaders</h2>

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<p>Nigerian chief of defence staff has asked the regional military chiefs to follow “a sense of urgency” and allocate the necessary resources as they had agreed.</p>

<p>“ECOWAS will not be used for coups. Democracy is what we stand for and democracy is what we will sustain,” Nigerian defence chief Christopher Musa said.</p>

<p>He called for action to also address security lapses in West Africa, saying the latest mutiny highlights “the fragility of our region.”</p>

<h2><strong>Signs of conflict loom </strong></h2>

<p>The extreme step by ECOWAS was taken after its efforts to find an amical solution through the diplomatic route didn’t take off.</p>

<p>Reuters news agency, quoting sources, reported that a delegation was sent to Niger capital Niamey on Thursday seeking an "amicable resolution", but they were rebuffed and did not stay long.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-ousted-president-seeks-us-help-points-to-growing-russian-influence-622181"><strong>Niger’s ousted president seeks US help, points to growing ‘Russian influence’</strong></a></p>

<p>"We want diplomacy to work, and we want this message clearly transmitted to them that we are giving them every opportunity to reverse what they have done," Musah said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-coup-nigerian-president-bola-tinubu-writes-letter-to-senate-seeking-support-for-military-intervention-622510">Niger Coup: Nigerian President Bola Tinubu writes letter to Senate seeking support for military intervention</a></strong></p>

<p>The military junta had already asserted that it would fight back against any interference in their internal matters.</p>

<p>General Abdourahamane Tiani—the 59-year-old coup leader who served as battalion commander for ECOWAS forces during conflicts in Ivory Coast in 2003—has already received support from Mali and Burkina Faso.</p>

<p>The junta has cited persistent insecurity as its main justification for seizing power.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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As the deadline to reinstate ousted Niger President Mohamed Bazoum draws close on Sunday, the military chiefs of West African nations finalised a military intervention plan and urged the troops to be ready if the coup leaders fail to agree to their demands.

As the deadline to reinstate ousted Niger President Mohamed Bazoum draws close on Sunday, the military chiefs of West African nations finalised a military intervention plan and urged the troops to be ready if the coup leaders fail to agree to their demands. The defence chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) — excluding Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea and Niger — gathered in Abuja, Nigeria, on Friday to discuss several measures. Under the plan, the final decision on the modalities of the intervention has been left with the political leaders to decide, Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace and security, said. ‘We will make them handover power’ "All the elements that will go into any eventual intervention have been worked out here, including the resources needed, the how and when we are going deploy the force," he said at the close of a three-day meeting in Nigeria's capital Abuja, reports Reuters news agency. Musa did not say if the ECOWAS would deploy troops to the coup-hit country, but he reiterated their earlier demand to reinstate Bazoum in the coming days or “we will make them handover to the civilian authorities.” Niger coup: Ecowas threatens use of force on coup leaders Nigerian chief of defence staff has asked the regional military chiefs to follow “a sense of urgency” and allocate the necessary resources as they had agreed. “ECOWAS will not be used for coups. Democracy is what we stand for and democracy is what we will sustain,” Nigerian defence chief Christopher Musa said. He called for action to also address security lapses in West Africa, saying the latest mutiny highlights “the fragility of our region.” Signs of conflict loom The extreme step by ECOWAS was taken after its efforts to find an amical solution through the diplomatic route didn’t take off. Reuters news agency, quoting sources, reported that a delegation was sent to Niger capital Niamey on Thursday seeking an "amicable resolution", but they were rebuffed and did not stay long. Also read | Niger’s ousted president seeks US help, points to growing ‘Russian influence’ "We want diplomacy to work, and we want this message clearly transmitted to them that we are giving them every opportunity to reverse what they have done," Musah said. Also read | Niger Coup: Nigerian President Bola Tinubu writes letter to Senate seeking support for military intervention The military junta had already asserted that it would fight back against any interference in their internal matters. General Abdourahamane Tiani—the 59-year-old coup leader who served as battalion commander for ECOWAS forces during conflicts in Ivory Coast in 2003—has already received support from Mali and Burkina Faso. The junta has cited persistent insecurity as its main justification for seizing power. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

West African military chiefs finalise intervention plan as deadline to reinstate Niger's Bazoum draws close

Niger is under a military coup, but this takeover of the government is not new to the landlocked nation. Ever since independence from France in 1960, the military or the presidential guard has been taking power by force. Will the story be any different this time?

49 years of power struggle in Niger | World of Africa