Nigerians Fear Escalating Tensions Amidst Tinubu’s Military Action Proposal for Niger Republic
ECOWAS 7-day ultimatum expires day.
Palpable fear has engulfed Nigerians, particularly those residing in the northern region, following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to seek military action against the junta in Niger Republic. The move comes after the recent toppling of Niger’s democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, by his military guard, sparking concerns about restoring democracy in the neighboring country.
As per reports, Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, along with 10 senior military officers, announced a coup in Niger on July 27, citing allegations of poor governance and the government’s inability to address security and other challenges plaguing the nation.
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In response, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by President Tinubu as its newly elected Chairman, issued a stern seven-day ultimatum to the junta to restore normalcy or face stringent sanctions.
The ECOWAS leaders convened in an emergency meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, and agreed upon several political sanctions to pressure the military junta. These measures include closing and monitoring all land borders with Niger Republic, cutting off electricity supply, mobilizing international support, preventing commercial and special flights to and from Niger, blocking goods transit from Lagos and eastern seaports, conducting sensitization campaigns, and preparing for military intervention if the junta remains unyielding.
In an attempt to resolve the crisis peacefully, President Tinubu dispatched a delegation led by former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), to Niamey on August 3rd. However, reports suggest that the Nigerien military has shown reluctance to engage in dialogue, prompting President Tinubu to seek the Senate’s approval for military action against the junta.
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The looming prospect of military intervention has raised concerns among Nigerians, particularly those residing in the northern states bordering Niger. Burkina Faso and Mali have also expressed reservations about military action in their coup-hit neighbor, warning that it could escalate tensions in the West African region.
Prominent figures, including an Islamic preacher in Kano and the Northern Senators Forum, have cautioned against immediate military intervention. They advocate for exhausting diplomatic avenues first, citing the potential consequences on innocent citizens and the potential impact on Nigeria’s internal challenges.
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In response to mounting concerns, the security committee of ECOWAS has decided to prioritize diplomacy and engage with relevant stakeholders to pursue dialogue and negotiation to resolve the crisis in Niger. The situation remains tense, with Nigerians closely monitoring developments and hoping for a peaceful resolution to restore democracy in the neighboring country.
