Nigeria's Participation in the African Union Suspended

The African Union has announced the suspension of Nigeria's participation in the organization due to the military takeover of power in the country, according to AP. The decision will remain in effect "until constitutional order is restored in the country." The agency notes that this announcement was the first issued by the African Union following discussions on Nigeria's crisis in early August.

On August 16, Le Monde reported, citing diplomatic sources, that the Union is opposed to any military intervention in Nigeria's affairs. The African Union is now urging member states and the entire international community to reject Nigeria's unconstitutional coup and refrain from any actions that could legitimize the coup leaders.

The African Union comprises 55 countries. At the end of July, several officers from Nigeria's presidential guard arrested President Mohamed Bazoum and removed him from power. The president is currently under house arrest with his wife and son in Niamey.