Bola Tinubu, the president of Nigeria, has replied to criticism on the choice to consider a potential military intervention in Niger following the coup last month.

He claimed that the Ecowas regional bloc made this decision, not Nigeria, along with the demand that the leaders of the military coup in Niger restore the expelled president.

It happens at a time when Mr. Tinubu, who is also the current chairman of Ecowas, is facing criticism for allegedly advocating military intervention in Niger.

The president "has deemed it necessary to state unequivocally that the mandate and ultimatum issued by Ecowas is that of Ecowas' position," according to a spokesperson for the Nigerian government.

The representative also claims that Ecowas is responsible for Niger's financial sanctions in a statement.

Ecowas previously stated that it favours a diplomatic and political solution that restores Mohamed Bazoum to his position as the elected president of Niger. If the junta continues to be obstinate, it was stated that a military intervention would be the "last resort."

Following the Ecowas deadline's expiration on Sunday, the Ecowas heads of state will meet on Thursday in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, to discuss the best course of action for Niger.