The economic sanctions of ECOWAS and UEMOA against Niger, following the military takeover of power, have already taken effect. In any case, as far as Benin is concerned, the transportation of goods to Niger is now cut off until further notice.
Traffic is disrupted on the Cotonou – Niamey corridor. Trucks carrying goods destined for Niger are prohibited from circulating. According to Samira Sabou, who raised the alert, “hundreds of trucks containing foodstuffs are blocked for several tens of kilometers.”
At the Port of Cotonou, containers in transit to Niger are facing difficulties for several hours. This is clearly the result of ECOWAS sanctions that Benin is already implementing. As the main transit channel for goods to Niger, the closure of the Beninese border signals heavy consequences.
Even though the situation is currently stable, the coming days may be challenging for the economy of Niger and its people. According to Prime Minister Mohamed Bazoum, Niger will not be able to withstand the battery of ECOWAS sanctions.
Ouhoumoudou Mahamadou is convinced that the coup leaders will not last long. He predicts a disaster for his country if the CNSP does not comply with ECOWAS’ demands, the main one being the return of Mohamed Bazoum to power.
