ECOWAS condemns coup in Niger

In a statement, ECOWAS said it "unequivocally denounces the attempt to seize power by force" and called for the immediate and unconditional release of the democratically-elected President of the Republic, Mohamed Bazoum.

The bloc also said that all those involved in the coup would be held accountable for the safety and security of the president, his family, government officials, and the general public.

The coup was carried out by a group of soldiers who appeared on national television, declaring the removal of Bazoum from power. Prior to this announcement, the president was under house arrest by the presidential guard.

Identifying themselves as the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country, the group cited the country's deteriorating security situation as the reason behind their actions. Nevertheless, they asserted their commitment to engage with both the international and national communities.

Media reports indicate that the soldiers have suspended the functioning of governmental institutions, placing security forces in control. They also called upon external partners not to interfere in the country's affairs.

ECOWAS has called on all parties to the situation in Niger to "exercise restraint" and to "work together to resolve the crisis peacefully." (ILKHA)