Nigeria has halted the supply of 150 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Niger as part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) initiative to facilitate the restoration of democracy in the neighboring nation.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) executed the disconnection on Tuesday night, aligning with ECOWAS efforts aimed at addressing the political crisis in Niger.
The decision to disconnect the power supply was confirmed by an official of the transmission company who prefers to be anonymous.
“It is true Niger was disconnected from the national grid last night based on the instruction of the government. Nigeria used to supply 150 megawatts, MW of power to Niger,” the source stated.
The move signifies a complete disconnection, reflecting ECOWAS’s commitment to its campaign for democratic renewal in the country.
Meanwhile, regional military chiefs convened on Wednesday to discuss potential actions concerning the situation in junta-ruled Niger. ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah emphasized that while a military intervention remains a last resort, preparations must be made for all eventualities.
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The discussions took place during a three-day meeting of ECOWAS military chiefs in the Nigerian capital, Abuja.
The United Kingdom has also voiced its support for ECOWAS’s stance on the military coup in Niger Republic.
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly lauded ECOWAS’s resolute commitment to democracy and its rejection of violence as a means of political change. Cleverly recognized President Mohamed Bazoum as the legitimate leader and expressed solidarity with ECOWAS in its efforts to restore peace and democracy in Niger.
ECOWAS has taken strong measures in response to the crisis, including a seven-day ultimatum for the restoration of President Bazoum to power or the threat of military action.
Sanctions have been imposed on Niger, including the closure of land and air borders with member-states, a no-fly zone for commercial flights, and freezing of assets and transactions. The bloc’s resolute actions signal its dedication to resolving the crisis and promoting democratic governance.
Cleverly’s endorsement of ECOWAS’s actions aligns with the UK’s commitment to fostering stability and democracy in Niger. The collaborative efforts of ECOWAS member states, including Nigeria, underscore a regional commitment to achieving peace and democratic restoration in Niger.
(Edited by Oludare Mayowa; omayowa@globalfinancialdigest.com; Newsroom: +234 8033 964 138)
