NIAMEY: The military junta in Niger has issued a directive to elevate the country’s armed forces to the highest state of alert, citing an escalating threat of attacks. An internal document, verified by a security source, revealed this development on Friday, AFP reported.
The circulated document, widely shared online on Saturday, outlined the imperative for the armed forces to be on maximum alert, allowing them to effectively respond to any potential attacks and prevent unexpected security breaches. It emphasized the need to be prepared in order to “avoid a general surprise.”
The document further stated, “Threats of aggression to the national territory are increasingly being felt,” indicating the seriousness of the security concerns that have prompted the heightened state of readiness.
ECOWAS Engaged in Talks with Niger Coup Leaders
Following the coup on July 26, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has been engaged in negotiations with the coup leaders. While diplomatic efforts are underway, ECOWAS has expressed its willingness to deploy troops to reinstate constitutional order if peaceful negotiations do not yield results.
ECOWAS attempted to alleviate concerns over a military intervention, emphasizing its commitment to diplomatic channels. ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray clarified, “For the avoidance of doubt, let me state unequivocally that ECOWAS has neither declared war on the people of Niger, nor is there a plan, as it is being purported, to invade the country.”
The activation of a standby force for possible intervention, authorized by ECOWAS earlier in August, has raised apprehensions of a potential escalation that could exacerbate the security challenges in the insurgency-ridden Sahel region.
