President Bola Tinubu, who also heads the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, revealed on Tuesday that he has been managing a critical situation involving the Niger Republic crisis. In his capacity as ECOWAS Chairman, President Tinubu has been restraining the regional bloc and outside forces from escalating the situation further.
Chairman Tinubu urged a group of Islamic scholars, known as Ulamas, to expedite their efforts in negotiating with the military junta in Niger Republic. These scholars were initially involved in talks to restore constitutional democratic governance in the country. The President emphasized his role in preventing a precipitous reaction while underscoring the necessity for peaceful dialogue.
Addressing the urgency of the situation, President Tinubu noted that he had received numerous calls from countries ready to deploy military forces and resources, but he advocated for restraint. He reaffirmed his commitment to engaging with the Ulamas and providing updates to concerned parties.
The Ulama delegation recently briefed President Tinubu on their discussions with the military junta in Niger Republic. These Islamic clerics, representing various sects, emphasized their opposition to war or military intervention in the neighboring nation that shares boundaries with Nigeria.
The Niger Republic faced a bloodless coup on July 26, led by Abdourahamane Tchiani, which resulted in the removal of the democratically elected President. ECOWAS, under President Tinubu’s leadership, imposed sanctions and called for the reinstatement of the deposed President.
Following their second meeting with President Tinubu, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who led the Ulama delegation, maintained their commitment to resolving the political crisis through peaceful means. President Tinubu entrusted them with the task of continuing negotiations with the junta in Niger Republic.
The Ulama leader expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with President Tinubu and highlighted their dedication to peaceful dialogue for regional stability. The Ulama delegation vowed to work towards lasting peace through non-violent avenues.
The Nigerian Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Malagi, confirmed that the Ulama delegation briefed the President on the ongoing diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that President Tinubu remains committed to exploring peaceful solutions and encouraged the Ulamas to persevere with their negotiations.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron has also voiced his concerns over the crisis in Niger Republic. He called for a return to democratic governance and highlighted the coup’s negative impact on democracy and the fight against terrorism in the region.
Macron further underlined the importance of international engagement, referencing France’s involvement in military operations in the region. He stressed that without such involvement, the stability of Mali, Burkina Faso, and even Niger itself could have been compromised.
As ECOWAS continues to navigate the complex situation in Niger Republic, President Tinubu’s role in promoting diplomacy and regional stability remains pivotal.
