The military junta in Niger has barred officials from the African Union, a West African regional organisation, and the United Nations from visiting the nation, according to a letter obtained by Reuters on Tuesday, thwarting the latest diplomatic efforts to restore the country’s expelled president.
On Wednesday, diplomats from the African Union, the United Nations, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were scheduled to arrive in Niamey.
“The current context of anger and revolt among the population as a result of ECOWAS sanctions makes it impossible to welcome this delegation in the required serenity and security,” the letter to the ECOWAS representation in Niamey stated.
Following the military coup on July 26, ECOWAS warned the junta to reinstall ousted President Mohamed Bazoum within one week or risk military involvement to restore constitutional order.
However, after the deadline passed on Sunday, the junta retaliated by sealing the country’s airspace.
The bloc’s leaders will reconvene in Nigeria on Thursday to review and debate the political issue and recent events in Niger.