The Economic Community of West African States {ECOWAS) Commission has accused the Nigerien junta of provocation and contradicting it’s reported willingness to dialogue in order to resolve the troubled country’s political impasse with latest move to charged the deposed President Mohamed Bazoum with treason.

A statement on Monday read: “ECOWAS has learnt with stupefaction attempts to bring charges of high treason against H.E. Mohamed Bazoum, President of the Republic of Nigeria.

“ECOWAS condemns this move as it represents yet another form of provocation and contradicts the reported willingness of the military authorities in the Republic of Nigeria to restore constitutional order through peaceful means.’

The Commission added that “President Bazoum remains the democratically elected President of the Republic of Nigeria recognized by ECOWAS and the international community. ECOWAS condemns his illegal detention and calls for his immediate release and reinstatement.’