The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly criticized the threats made by Niger’s military to bring charges of treason against the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum or even cause harm to him. The CNG, in a statement issued by its Spokesperson Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, described these plans as ill-advised and condemned them.
The timing of the military’s announcement is particularly shocking, coming just hours after a group of Nigerian Islamic scholars announced a meeting with the coup leader Abdourahamane Tchiani, where they discussed the possibility of direct talks. The CNG expressed concern about any potential escalation of the conflict and called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to play its role as a regional mediator by advocating for peaceful negotiations through diplomatic channels.
Furthermore, the CNG urged the Niger military to refrain from taking any action that could jeopardize the resolution of the crisis. The group firmly rejected the suggestion of trying President Bazoum through military proceedings and warned that such actions could strain relations between the Niger military and the international community.
The CNG emphasized that any outbreak of war and instability in Niger Republic would be detrimental to the sub-region, possibly leading to prolonged armed conflicts with significant political and socioeconomic implications. While the restoration of constitutional order in Niger is essential, the group highlighted that sustainable democracy can only be achieved when all parties involved in the crisis agree on fair terms that will foster long-term peace.
In this regard, the CNG called upon ECOWAS to avoid giving the impression that diplomacy can be combined with military threats. Instead, the regional body should prioritize the interests of the civilian population in Niger, which appears to, for various reasons, support the military leaders.
The CNG also underscored the responsibility of the military leadership to the population and the broader African continent. The group warned that their actions, including their rhetoric and threats, would not go unnoticed, and they would be held accountable if any further escalation results from their words.
