The coup leaders in Niger have recalled their country’s ambassador in Ivory Coast, claiming that the Ivorian president’s words amounted to “praising armed action” against them.
On his way back from a regional summit last week, Alassane Ouattara expressed his intention to see Niger’s democratically elected leader, Mohamed Bazoum, returned.
He also stated that a military campaign to restore democracy in Niger should begin “as soon as possible.”
He stated that Ivory Coast, along with Nigeria and Benin, would provide between 850 and 1,100 troops.
The West African regional organization ECOWAS has reiterated its preference for a diplomatic solution, but military action is still an option.
The bloc expressed dismay that the coup leaders had decided to charge Mr Bazoum with high treason.
