The recent coup in Niger Republic, which led to the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum, has prompted the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take swift action. In an emergency meeting of regional leaders, ECOWAS has issued a directive to reactivate its standby force for the purpose of restoring constitutional order in the nation.

ECOWAS President Omar Alieu Touray announced the decision, highlighting that one of the resolutions agreed upon was the use of force to remove the coup plotters. The regional leaders are determined to ensure that stability and constitutional governance are reinstated promptly.

The communique released following the meeting emphasized the urgency of the situation. It reads, "Direct the committee of the Chief of Defence Staff to activate the ECOWAS standby force with all its elements immediately. Order the deployment of the ECOWAS standby force to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. Underscore its continued commitment to the restoration of constitutional order through peaceful means."

ECOWAS has made efforts to engage in dialogue with the military junta responsible for the coup, aiming to resolve the crisis peacefully. However, these efforts have been met with defiance. The coup leaders remain uncooperative and have continued to detain President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members against the appeals for their release.

In a worrying turn of events, the junta has issued a threat against the deposed President Bazoum's life. The threat was conveyed to Victoria Nuland, a prominent U.S. diplomat, during her recent visit to the country. The junta's warning suggests that they are prepared to take drastic measures if neighboring countries intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum's rule.

As ECOWAS takes decisive steps to address the crisis and restore order, the situation in Niger Republic remains tense and uncertain. The international community watches closely as regional efforts to uphold constitutional governance unfold in the face of resistance and threats from the coup leaders.