West African leaders threaten sanctions, force against Niger coup leaders

FILE PHOTO: Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) flag is pictured during a summit of ECOWAS, in Accra, Ghana March 25, 2022. REUTERS/Francis Kokoroko/File photo

ABUJA (Reuters) - West Africa's regional bloc ECOWAS on Sunday gave Niger coup leaders one week to reinstate ousted President Mohammed Bazoum or face sanctions and the possible use of force.

The regional leaders meeting in Nigeria's capital Abuja said punitive measures against Niger's new military leaders could include financial and travel sanctions and a no-fly zone.