In response to a mounting threat from the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, which threatens to use military force if the junta does not restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, residents of the capital city of Niger, Niamey, are calling for the widespread recruitment of volunteers to support the army.
After the junta disregarded a deadline to release and reinstate Bazoum, ECOWAS activated a “standby force” to restore order in Niger.
“We do not give a damn about ECOWAS. ECOWAS has been tailor-made for the presidents in power. And we do not need it” says Omar Amadou, a Niamey resident. “Whether ECOWAS intervenes or not, Niger is ready for all options. We are ready. Whatever ECOWAS decides, we are ready” Amadou stressed.
After the country’s democratically elected president was overthrown by mutinous military three weeks ago, Niger is now preparing for a potential invasion by countries in the region.
The campaign, which is being led by a group of Niamey residents, wants to sign up tens of thousands of volunteers from all throughout the nation for the Volunteers for the Defense of Niger.
If the junta needed support, the group would fight, help with medical treatment, and offer technical and engineering logistics among other things.
“My children and I love these soldiers, and I invite young people to join the army and develop our country, our villages,” said Niamey resident Amadou Hawa.
Despite warnings from both parties that they are willing to find a peaceful solution to the problem, regional tensions are rising as the impasse between Niger and ECOWAS shows no signs of defusing.