The Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Crescent (IFRC), Jagan Chapagain, has expressed concerns over a looming humanitarian crisis looming that has the potential to crush the entire West African subregion.

“If there is to be an armed conflict in Niger, by experience it shows that there will be movement of people,” he told Freedomnewspaper during a sit-down interview.

The military takeover in Niger has triggered the regional bloc ECOWAS to activate its standby force with the view to restoring the constitutional order. However, the Junta stood firm on its ground and made it clear that they won’t quit power under pressure.

Last month, Chapagain toured the tiny West African nation from with the aim of showing “IFRC network’s unique strengths and leadership in supporting people on the move through humanitarian service points providing support regardless of status. As coulds of uncertainty continue to hang over Niger, many analyst concour that further escalation will inexorably lead to an influx of refugees, IDPs in the troubled-torn region.

“We will do what we normally do. In each country, we have a local Red Cross and Red Crescent societies,” he told this medium in an attempt to  reaffirm their level of preparedness with regards to demands for their services.

Fears are mounting over a possible deterioration of the political situation in Niger as neighbouring Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso have rejected the military option, deepening the divide between ECOWAS countries.

“On this particular situation, we are closely monitoring. This is part of our regular work to prepare for any crisis,” he pointed out, adding that they are in close contact with their local branches in Niger and in neighbouring countries.

by Abdoulie John