Tensions remain high in Niger, where the leaders of a coup are poised to reject a West African regional bloc's demand to end the power grab by Sunday.

A military unit ousted pro-Western President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26 and announced the formation of a military government.

The political turmoil has triggered protests against the nation's former colonial ruler, France.

On Thursday, the military leaders announced the revocation of military cooperation pacts with France, in an apparent move to shift the West African country's pro-Western stance.

The Economic Community of West African States, or ECOWAS, condemned the coup and suggested the use of force unless Bazoum is reinstated by the deadline.

ECOWAS sent a delegation to Niger for negotiations. But Reuters news agency and other media say the officials have already left because the military leaders were unwilling to comply.

Defense officials of the regional bloc continued discussions on Friday. They are apparently drawing up a plan for possible military intervention in Niger.