The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has advised President Bola Tinubu to remove the various sanctions imposed on Niger Republic in order to create a conducive atmosphere for negotiations with the military junta.
In the wake of the overthrow of the civilian government in Niger, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the immediate closure of borders between Niger Republic and a disconnection of power supply to the country.
Reacting to these actions, the NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, stated that the removal of sanctions on Niger Republic would facilitate easier negotiations. He emphasized that the imposition of sanctions would have a negative impact on the morale and welfare of citizens in both countries, and would hinder Nigeria’s positive rapport with Niger Republic.
Baba-Ahmed further explained that by lifting these sanctions, negotiations led by Nigeria, utilizing all assets that both countries value, would be more smoothly conducted. He also highlighted the apology offered by the military leaders in Niger to President Tinubu regarding their treatment of his envoys, General Abdusalami and His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto.
The NEF acknowledged President Tinubu’s role as Chairman of ECOWAS and leader of Nigerians, emphasizing Nigeria’s unique position to engage with the leadership of Niger Republic and bring about a swift resolution.
Failure to resolve the situation, according to Baba-Ahmed, would compound the security and humanitarian crises in the ECOWAS region. This would not only weaken and further divide ECOWAS but also potentially expose the region to non-African interests, carrying negative consequences.
The NEF urged ECOWAS to actively reassess the roles and influences of non-African interests in the West African region. It emphasized the need to address the numerous threats posed by armed groups in the Sahel and the region, as well as the growing impact of global military movements and asset acquisition.
Baba-Ahmed expressed his appreciation for the contributions made by leaders and influential individuals, including the Nigerian Senate, towards a genuine resolution of the situation in Niger Republic. He concluded by urging President Tinubu to recognize the significance of this moment in history and conduct himself in a manner that will be seen as defining statesmanship.
