Embattled Gambian leader Yahya Jammeh has confirmed on state tv news going around that he has agreed to step down from his seat to hand over to new President Adama Barrow.

Jammeh said there was no need for any blood to be shed in his address, promising a peaceful resolution to the impasse.

Adama Barrow announced late Friday that Jammeh had agreed to step down, after the ECOWAS force entered the country and threatened to forcefully remove him if he does not step down.

After intense negotiations with fellow ECOWAS leaders, Jammeh agreed to step down.

“I have decided today in good conscience to relinquish the mantle of leadership of this great nation with infinite gratitude to all Gambians,” he said.

“I promise before Allah and the entire nation that all the issues we currently face will be resolved peacefully.”

Jammeh added that it was “not necessary that a single drop of blood be shed”.

He is expected to leave the country on a flight with Guinean leader Alpha Conde for the latter’s country.