In an interview with the BBC, the ECOWAS mediator confirmed that the coup in Niger did indeed take place, and the ruling military has consolidated its control. This statement aligns with the remarks of former Ivorian president Laurent Gbagbo, who asserted that the Nigerien population had accepted the coup and that negotiation should replace military intervention.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar explained the efforts of the ECOWAS special envoy to Niger in an interview published on Thursday, August 24, 2023. He also highlighted the consequences of the sanctions imposed on the country, which compelled the military to engage in negotiations. After meeting with General Tchiani, the former Nigerian president expressed his sentiments. Moreover, he confirmed that the coup had indeed taken place, and the military had consolidated their authority. “After inspecting the site, we can conclude that a coup has taken place and they have consolidated their control,” the mediator stated.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the ousted president’s return to power is unlikely, as the coup has been executed. On this point, he echoed the sentiments of the former Ivorian president. “They said they have already ousted President Bazoum and that the question of his return to power will not be possible. They said they would not do that, they would not bring Bazoum back to power, but they would be willing to negotiate on anything else,” Abdulsalami Abubakar asserted.
Since members of the Presidential Guard staged a coup last month, the deposed president Bazoum has remained confined to his residence. As a reminder, on August 22, Laurent Gbagbo underscored that the coup had ultimately concluded. According to him, those claiming that the ousted leader could return to power are liars.
