As part of efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore democracy in Niger, Nigeria has disconnected the supply of 150 megawatts (MW) of electricity daily to its neighboring country. The disconnection was carried out by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), responsible for transmitting power, on Tuesday night.
The Managing Director/CEO of TCN, Engr. Sule Abdulaziz, has not yet responded to media inquiries, but an anonymous source within the organization confirmed the disconnection. The source stated, “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 of power to Niger. It is a total disconnection in line with ECOWAS moves to restore democracy in that country.”
The move comes in the wake of the recent military coup in Niger, where the Commander of Niger’s Presidential Guards, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, toppled the democratically elected government, drawing widespread condemnation from the international community.
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The disconnection of power is one of the measures taken by ECOWAS to exert pressure on the junta in Niger and restore democratic governance in the country. ECOWAS has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve the political crisis and has threatened military intervention if necessary.
However, during a three-day meeting of ECOWAS military chiefs in Abuja, the regional bloc clarified that military intervention in Niger is considered “the last resort.” Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, emphasized that the military option is the final course of action and that the focus remains on negotiations. He stated, “Military option is the very last option on the table, the last resort, but we have to prepare for the eventuality.” The ECOWAS team, led by former Nigerian leader Abdulsalami Abubakar, is currently in Niger engaging in negotiation efforts.
The situation in Niger has raised concerns among neighboring countries and the international community. ECOWAS, being a regional organization committed to promoting peace, stability, and democracy, has been closely monitoring the developments in Niger and taking proactive measures to address the crisis.
The disconnection of power supply is expected to add to the pressure on the junta in Niger and signal the seriousness of ECOWAS‘ commitment to restoring democratic governance in the country. As the situation unfolds, the international community will closely observe further diplomatic efforts and potential implications for regional stability.