The Arewa Broadcast Media Practitioners Forum (ABMPF) has raised alarm over the West African Regional bloc, ECOWAS, and the Nigerian President, Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s, plans to intervene militarily in the Republic of Niger. The move comes in response to the military junta’s recent coup d’état, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum’s civilian administration.
In a statement, ABMPF highlighted their concerns about the potential implications of military action in Niger Republic. They argued that such intervention could lead to turmoil and anarchy in the already fragile region of Northern Nigeria, which is grappling with terrorist activities.
ABMPF emphasized that safeguarding democracy in Niger should be the responsibility of its own people, with neighboring countries like Nigeria focusing on supporting democratic institutions rather than exacerbating the situation. The organization further warned that any military action in Niger would not be confined to its capital, Niamey, but could have severe humanitarian consequences across the West African subregion and Northern Nigeria, specifically affecting communities in Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Jigawa, Yobe, and Borno states.
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The coup in Niger, which initially began as a palace coup, has evolved into a rallying point for anti-neocolonial struggle not only within Niger but also among Francophone West African nations. ECOWAS member states are gradually recognizing the coup’s irreversible nature, challenging the feasibility of a successful ousting of the military junta.
President Tinubu’s role as ECOWAS leader has come under scrutiny, with some critics branding him a Western puppet, serving the interests of France and America. ABMPF, however, commended the Nigerian Senate and other individuals who have advocated for caution and restraint in the situation.
Calling on Nigerians to unite, ABMPF urged ECOWAS to abandon its proposed military intervention and seek a diplomatic solution to the crisis. The organization proposed specific measures for the Tinubu Administration to restore diplomatic ties with Niger Republic, including suspending war entreaties, opening borders for free economic activities and movement of people, and resolving the crisis through mediation and compromise.
ABMPF’s call to prioritize the interests of the people of Niger over ECOWAS protocols echoes the shared historical, cultural, economic, and religious affinities between the Republic of Niger and Northern Nigeria, dating back to the pre-colonial era.
The Nigerian public, civil society, religious and traditional leaders, as well as the press, are urged to rally in support of restoring diplomatic ties with Niger and fostering peace and stability in the region.
The statement was signed by Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Yelwa Ajiyan Yauri
