Niger / ECOWAS : Tensions persist despite the lifting of sanctions
Despite the lifting of sanctions by ECOWAS, tensions remain high at the border between Benin and Niger. During an extraordinary summit, ECOWAS decided to end sanctions imposed on Niger, but the situation on the ground remains complex.
Benin quickly implemented the lifting of restrictions by opening its border at Malanville. However, on the Nigerien side, goods transporters are still blocked at the border, with barriers remaining in place despite ECOWAS’s decision.
The border between these two neighboring countries has become a point of conflict, heightened by a tragic event last Saturday. A Nigerien national was shot dead while attempting to force through barriers on the bridge linking Benin to Niger. This tragedy underscores the growing tensions at the border, despite ECOWAS’s efforts to ease the situation.
On the Nigerien side, authorities of the National Council for the Salvation of the People (CNSP) have not yet reacted to the lifting of sanctions. No statement has been made by General Tchiani’s team regarding the resolutions of the sub-regional institution on the Nigerien crisis.
The border between Benin and Niger had been closed in August 2023 in response to the coup against Mohamed Bazoum’s regime. Despite the lifting of sanctions by ECOWAS, barriers on the Nigerien side remain, preventing any movement of goods between the two countries.
Niger’s decision to withdraw “immediately” from ECOWAS, followed by Mali and Burkina Faso, adds a new dimension to this crisis. These countries justified their departure by describing the sub-regional grouping as “dangerous” for their people.
After nearly six months of deadlock, the situation at the border between Benin and Niger remains tense, highlighting persistent challenges in the region. The maintained barriers on the Nigerien side despite the lifting of sanctions underscore the difficulties in achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution to the political crisis in the region.
