The military junta that overthrew the government of President Mohamed Bazoum of the Republic of Niger has severed diplomatic relations with Nigeria, France, Togo and the U.S. and recalled the country’s ambassadors.

Abdourahamane Tiani, the military ruler who spearheaded the coup, made the announcement on Niger’s national television on Thursday.

Mr Tiani “put an end” to the functions of Niger’s ambassadors to Nigeria; Sidi Zakari, to France; Aishatou Boulamakane, to Togo; Limon Tingiri and America; Mohamadou Tiari.

The announcement has hurt negotiations between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the junta as neither party is willing to compromise.

ECOWAS, on Sunday, imposed a slew of economic sanctions on Niger to frustrate the junta into surrendering and releasing Mohamed Bazoum; the democratically elected president held by the coup plotters.

ECOWAS threatened military action against Niger should the junta continue to hold on to power, a threat that was immediately rebuffed by Mali and Burkina Faso, who said any military invasion of Niger would be interpreted as a declaration of war against them.

On Thursday, Mr Tinubu sent a delegation comprising Abdulsalami Abubakar, a retired general, Muhammadu Abubakar, Sultan of Sokoto and the president of the ECOWAS commission to negotiate with the junta at Niger.