The Nigerian government has emphasized that deploying troops to Niger Republic would be considered as a last option in the efforts to remove the military junta and reinstate democratic rule.
Ibrahim Lamuwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, conveyed this message during a discussion with the diplomatic corps concerning the political situation in Niger.
Restoring Democracy Diplomatically
Lamuwa clarified that diplomatic engagements with the military junta will be the primary approach in the quest to restore democracy in Niger.
President Bola Tinubu is committed to ensuring that the ousted President, Mohamed Bazoum, is rightfully reinstated to power.
Call for International Solidarity
The Nigerian government has appealed to the international community to stand in solidarity with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in their endeavor to restore democratic governance in Niger.
Immediate condemnation of the coup by the international community has been seen as a testament to their preference for democracy and constitutional rule over any other form of governance.
Concerns over Regional Stability and ECOWAS Reputation
Lamuwa, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Senegal, expressed concern that the success of the coup in Niger could have negative implications for ECOWAS’s reputation.
The recent developments in Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Guinea, where countries have supported the coup, have raised serious apprehensions about regional stability and democratic principles in West Africa.
President Bazoum’s Legitimacy and Rejection of Resignation Claims
The region firmly upholds President Bazoum as the legitimate president and head of state of the Republic of Niger.
This stance is supported by ECOWAS, the African Union (AU), and the international community.
Any purported resignation claims from President Bazoum, possibly under duress, are categorically rejected.
Special Delegation for Engagements with Libya and Algeria
In addressing the matter, a separate delegation led by Babagana Kingibe, a former secretary to the government of the federation, has been tasked with engaging with the leaders of Libya and Algeria.
These engagements are aimed at finding diplomatic solutions and garnering support from neighboring countries for the restoration of democracy in Niger.
Conclusion
The Nigerian government’s approach to the situation in Niger Republic reflects a commitment to diplomatic resolutions, with military intervention being seen as a last resort.
ECOWAS’s reputation is at stake, and the region stands united in supporting the legitimate president, President Bazoum.
International solidarity is sought to reinforce the significance of democratic and constitutional rule in West Africa.
Through diplomatic efforts and engagement with neighboring countries, the restoration of democracy in Niger remains a priority for both Nigeria and ECOWAS.
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