During a heated and prolonged meeting, the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) has officially decided to oppose the use of military force in Niger. This decision, which was supposed to be formalized last week, puts the AU at odds with the Economy Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has decided to immediately activate its standby forces for a possible military intervention.
This disagreement significantly weakens the West African organization and creates an unprecedented situation where the AU distances itself from the military action contemplated by ECOWAS.
The situation in Niger remains delicate, with escalating tensions and significant security challenges. While ECOWAS also prioritizes dialogue, it maintains its decision for a military intervention.
However, a few days ago, the president of the AU commission expressed solidarity with ECOWAS when the organization, under the leadership of Nigerian President Tinubu, called for the release of President Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown in the coup.
This AU decision highlights its commitment to dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. It also underscores the importance given to consultation and the search for political rather than military solutions.
The current focus is on the result of the Ecowas Chiefs Of Defence Staff meeting taking place in Accra from today. They are discussing the deployment of the Ecowas standby force to Niger.