ECOWAS signals potential sanction relief for Niger amid calls for junta’s cooperation

In a significant development, Mr. Sidie Tunis, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, has hinted at the possible suspension of sanctions on Niger Republic contingent upon a display of goodwill by the military junta, specifically the release of President Mohamed Bazoum.

This announcement came during a courtesy visit by a 19-member delegation from Africans Without Borders to Mr. Tunis in Abuja. The primary objective of the delegation’s visit was to garner parliamentary support for the lifting of sanctions on Niger, aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by the country’s ordinary citizens.

During the meeting, Mr. Tunis urged the delegation to advocate for the unconditional release of President Bazoum and his family by the junta. He emphasized the need for a swift transition to restore constitutional governance in the country.

Expressing concern over the lack of positive outcomes despite numerous efforts by the bloc following the removal of the democratically elected government in Niger, Mr. Tunis highlighted the ECOWAS Parliament’s commitment to addressing the situation. He called on citizens to engage in diplomatic efforts, stating, “Citizens diplomacy is the best form of diplomacy that, if used well, can solve a whole lot of problems, not only in this sub-region but in the entire continent of Africa.”