In the aftermath of the coup in Niger, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a stern warning to Russia regarding the activities of the Wagner Group, a private military contractor operating in the region.
The regional body has asserted that it will hold responsible the country for any violations of human rights committed by the private military contractor.
The announcement was delivered by ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Ambassador Abdel- Fatau Musah, during an appearance on Channels Television’ s Sunrise Daily on August 11, 2023, Channels TV reports.
Ambassador Musah stressed the need for vigilance in monitoring the actions of the Wagner Group in Mali, where the private military contractor is operating under an agreement with the Russian Federation.
He emphasized that ECOWAS is resolute in its commitment to preventing any infringements on human rights or any form of devastation caused by the actions of the private military contractor within the region. Should such violations occur, ECOWAS will hold the responsible nations of the region accountable for their involvement.
” Our expectation is that any actions that compromise human rights or lead to devastation within our region due to these private military contractors will result in the responsible countries of our region being held to account, ” declared Ambassador Musah.
He clarified that the accountability mechanism would be diplomatic in nature, as the West African region is distinct from Russia. Historical instances of private military companies operating in African conflict zones, such as Sierra Leone and Liberia during past civil wars, were noted by Ambassador Musah.
However, according to Channels TV, he underscored that such presence is not considered acceptable in Africa. ECOWAS’ s position is that the countries of origin of these private military companies will be held responsible for any transgressions committed within the region.
Ambassador Musah also highlighted the ongoing involvement of Western powers, including France and the European Union (EU), in Niger. He noted the increasing presence of nations from the Middle East, such as Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, alongside Russia and China.
ECOWAS remains firmly opposed to the idea of West Africa becoming a theater for proxy conflicts and vehemently opposes interventions of such nature.
” We are unequivocally against the interference of private military companies in our region’ s conflict landscape due to the potential repercussions of their actions, ” Ambassador Musah stated with emphasis.
The statements from ECOWAS Commissioner highlight the regional bloc’ s dedication to preserving peace, security, and the safeguarding of human rights in West Africa. Additionally, it serves as a direct message to Russia and other countries involved in the region.
As the situation continues to evolve in Niger, ECOWAS’ s unwavering stance on the activities of private military contractors in the area remains a significant aspect of its diplomatic efforts.
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