The secretary general’s special representative for West Africa, Léonardo Simão, says the Niger crisis could worsen insecurity throughout West Africa if not addressed.
Mr Simão said this while briefing journalists on Tuesday at UN headquarters in New York.
The UN envoy reiterated condemnation of the attempted overthrow of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26.
He also underscored support for efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore constitutional order and consolidate democratic gains in the country.
“The unfolding crisis, if not addressed, will exacerbate the deteriorating security situation in the region. It will also negatively impact the development and lives of the population in a country where 4.3 million people need humanitarian assistance,” he said, speaking from Accra, Ghana.
He added that “Niger and the region do not need coups d’état. Populations deserve to enjoy peace, democratic governance and prosperity.”
Mr Simão…
