The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has given the coup leaders an ultimatum to step down and release the elected President Mohamed Bazoum by Sunday.

The coup in Niger has drawn international attention due to the country's valuable resources, including uranium and oil, and its significant role in countering rebels in the Sahel region. Major global powers, such as the United States, China, Europe, and Russia, consider Niger to be of strategic importance.

Under the proposed intervention plan, the decision on when and where to launch military action will rest with the heads of states, and this information will be kept confidential from the coup plotters.

Abdel-Fatau Musah, the ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace, and security, confirmed that all necessary elements for the intervention were meticulously discussed during a three-day meeting in Abuja, Nigeria's capital.

Despite ECOWAS imposing sanctions on Niger and attempting diplomatic mediation with a delegation sent to Niamey, the junta leading the coup has rejected outside interference and vowed to resist any intervention.

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has directed the government to prepare for various options, including deploying military personnel, and Senegal has offered to send troops in support of ECOWAS's stance.

Abdourahamane Tiani, the 59-year-old coup leader, brings prior experience as a battalion commander for ECOWAS forces during Ivory Coast conflicts in 2003, providing him with insights into potential intervention missions.

However, support from neighboring juntas in Mali and Burkina Faso presents a challenge to the regional response, as both countries have pledged to stand behind Niger amidst external pressure.

As the deadline set by ECOWAS approaches, the situation remains tense and critical. Military intervention looms as a possible outcome if the coup leaders fail to comply with the bloc's demands. (ILKHA)