Central African bloc backs ECOWAS’ efforts to restore democratic rule in Niger Republic

President Bola Tinubu says he is ready to collaborate with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) in ensuring that the Niger Republic returns to democratic rule.

Tinubu spoke on Tuesday when he received Hermann Immongault, Gabon’s minister of foreign affairs, and special envoy of President Ali Bongo.

Bongo also serves as the chairperson of ECCAS.

Immongault conveyed solidarity from Bongo to Tinubu, noting that ECCAS approved of ECOWAS’ resolutions on the unconstitutional takeover of government in Niger.

Tinubu said the support of the Central African bloc proved that military interference in democratic governance is not acceptable on the African continent. 

“I appreciate the solidarity and support of President Bongo on the situation in Niger. We are working not to compound the problem,” Ajuri Ngelale, the president’s spokesperson, quoted Tinubu as saying in a statement.

“We have well-meaning people who have intervened. I understand the fear of our people on any form of military action.

“We are working to keep the sanctions in place and we are following them to the letter. We are happy to know that ECCAS is with us on this. Interference in democratic governance is not acceptable to ECOWAS.”

Tinubu assured that ECOWAS will work with ECCAS and keep Bongo informed on actions as they unfold, the statement added.

In his remarks, the Gabonese special envoy commended the ECOWAS leadership for the steps taken so far to restore democracy in the troubled Niger.

He said he would communicate the firm solidarity between ECCAS and ECOWAS to the military authorities in Niger as they meet in the coming days.

“President Bongo has been following your efforts and those of other ECOWAS leaders on the situation in Niger. President Bongo and ECCAS strongly condemn the coup in Niger,” Ngelale quoted Immongault as saying.

“He sent me here to tell you that he supports ECOWAS and your leadership in what you are doing to ensure democratic governance is restored in Niger. 

“With Boko Haram attacks in Cameroon, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and the refugee situation in Chad, whatever happens in West Africa affects Central Africa. My president joins efforts with you and ECOWAS to find a solution to the crisis in ECOWAS.”