An Islamic group, the International Organization of Tijaniyyah Brotherhood, has appealed to ECOWAS to prioritize a diplomatic approach in resolving the leadership crisis in Niger Republic. In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, who also serves as the chairman of ECOWAS, the group emphasized the importance of handling the crisis with caution and maturity. The letter, jointly signed by the chairman of the brotherhood, Abdullahi El-Okene, and the secretary, Mustafa Gwadabe, was issued in Abuja on Sunday.
The Tijaniyya Brotherhood urged ECOWAS to consider the potential repercussions of military intervention, as it could exacerbate the hardships and economic challenges faced by the people of Niger and the border towns in Nigeria. They stressed that instead of resorting to military force to reinstate the ousted government, a peaceful and diplomatic solution should be sought.
The organization expressed concern that economic sanctions imposed under the directive of ECOWAS would further burden the ordinary people of Niger, especially those residing in border towns in Nigeria. They argued that these sufferings would directly impact the inhabitants of Nigerian communities near the Niger border. The Tijjaniyya firmly believed that military intervention would undermine the future of democracy in the sub-region, contradicting the objective of fostering democratic governance.
The Muslim group categorically rejected any form of military intervention in Niger Republic, reiterating their stance against using force to resolve political crises. They appealed to Nigerians to continue praying for peace and stability not only in Nigeria and Niger Republic but also within the entire sub-region.
By urging ECOWAS to prioritize diplomacy over military intervention, the Tijjaniyya Brotherhood seeks to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the leadership crisis in Niger Republic, safeguarding the well-being and economic stability of the people in the region.
