The Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are meeting in Abuja today to discuss the political situation in the Niger Republic.
The leaders are expected to decide on the next steps to take after the military junta in Niger overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.
In a previous meeting on July 30, ECOWAS leaders called for the immediate release and reinstatement of Bazoum as the legitimate Head of State and Government of the Republic of Niger.
They also rejected any form of purported resignation by Bazoum and declared him as the only recognised and elected President by ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community.
The current Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, is hosting the meeting at the State House in Abuja.
It is expected that the leaders will discuss the possibility of military intervention in Niger to restore democratic rule. They will also consider other options, such as economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
