The African Union (AU) has expressed opposition to military intervention in Niger and is expected to formally announce its stance soon.
Differing from the approach of ECOWAS, the AU’s Peace and Security Council (PSC), responsible for such matters, recently held an extensive meeting discussing the situation in Niger.
This prolonged session concluded with the PSC firmly opposing the use of force in the country, as reported by African media outlets.
Following this, while the PSC stands against military action, it has decided to suspend Niger from all AU activities.
This stance by the AU likely resonates with the majority of people in the West African sub-region.
ECOWAS leadership started considering military intervention, there has been vocal public opposition to such measures.
However, last week, ECOWAS activated its regional standby force.
The Nigerien regime remains unmoved and has even shown defiance towards ECOWAS leaders.
The junta recently turned away a delegation from ECOWAS, led by former Niger President, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
While there were indications of potential negotiations, the Nigerien regime expressed intentions to prosecute Mohamed Bazoum for alleged “high treason” and “threats to Niger’s internal and external security.”
The AU’s decision challenges ECOWAS, suggesting a disconnect with the sub-region’s realities.