Niamey, Niger – (African Boulevard News) – The junta in Niger has lambasted the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for imposing what it calls “inhumane” sanctions on the country. These sanctions have had a severe impact, leaving Niger with minimal power supply and exacerbating an already dire situation.
The land-locked country heavily relies on its neighbor, Nigeria, for electricity supply, with Nigeria accounting for 70 percent of Niger’s power. However, since the imposition of sanctions, Nigeria has cut off power supply, plunging Niger into darkness and creating further hardships for the already struggling population.
Colonel Major, the spokesperson for the Niger junta, expressed his frustration, stating, “These sanctions are inhumane and are only punishing the people of Niger. We understand the concerns of ECOWAS, but cutting off our power supply is not the solution. It only adds to the suffering of our citizens.”
The sanctions were imposed following the military coup that ousted President Bazoum earlier this year. ECOWAS aims to pressure the junta to restore civilian rule and uphold democratic principles. However, critics argue that these sanctions are hurting ordinary citizens more than they are affecting the junta.
The lack of power supply has had a ripple effect on various sectors of Niger’s economy. Businesses are being forced to shut down or operate at limited capacity, resulting in job losses and reduced economic activity. Hospitals are struggling to provide adequate healthcare services, and schools are facing disruptions in their operations.
The international community has also expressed concerns about the impact of the sanctions on the humanitarian situation in Niger. The country is already grappling with food shortages, malnutrition, and internal displacement due to ongoing conflicts. The sanctions have only worsened these existing challenges, leaving vulnerable populations even more vulnerable.
ECOWAS maintains that the sanctions are necessary to restore democracy and ensure the well-being of the people of Niger. However, some experts argue that alternative measures could be explored to achieve the desired outcomes without disproportionately affecting the population.
In the meantime, the Niger junta continues to call on ECOWAS to reconsider the sanctions. Colonel Major emphasizes that dialogue and negotiation are essential for finding a sustainable solution that does not further harm the people of Niger.
As the situation in Niger unfolds, it is crucial for ECOWAS and the international community to consider the unintended consequences of their actions. The focus should be on supporting and uplifting the people of Niger, rather than further exacerbating their suffering.
