ECOWAS Condemns Niger Junta’s “High Treason” Charge Against Ousted Prez

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned the move by Niger’s junta to charge ousted President Mohamed Bazoum for alleged “high treason” and “undermining the security of the country”.

In a statement, the ECOWAS said it finds the action of the junta an attempt to provocation and a contradiction of pledges to explore peaceful means to return to civilian rule.

“ECOWAS condemns this move as it represents another form of provocation and contradicts the reported willingness of military authorities in the Republic of Niger to restore constitutional order through peaceful means.”

It further condemned the detention of the President and called for his immediate release affirming he remains the only recognized and democratically elected President of the country.

The junta over the weekend said it was gathering evidence against the deposed leader and his alleged “local and foreign accomplices”.

Meanwhile, it is reported that he is being held together with his family in the basement of his palace in Niger’s capital Niamey.