On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu responded to recent developments in the neighboring Niger Republic, expressing concern about the current state of the highest political leadership. He showed unwavering support for the democratically elected government in the country, led by President Mohamed Bazoum.
In light of the unfolding crisis in Niger Republic, Tinubu, speaking on behalf of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), reiterated the region’s strong commitment to uphold democracy and maintain constitutional order in the troubled nation.
Tinubu emphasized that the region stands firmly behind the democratically elected government in Niger and stressed the crucial importance of preserving democratic values and institutions. This commitment extends not only to the people of Niger but also to ensuring stability and progress across the entire West African region.
He said, “Information filtering in from the Republic of Niger indicates some unpleasant developments around the country’s highest political leadership.
“It should be quite clear to all players in the Republic of Niger that the leadership of the ECOWAS Region and all lovers of democracy around the world will not tolerate any situation that incapacitates the democratically-elected government of the country.
“The ECOWAS leadership will not accept any action that impedes the smooth functioning of legitimate authority in Niger or any part of West Africa.
“I wish to say that we are closely monitoring the situation and developments in Niger and we will do everything within our powers to ensure democracy is firmly planted, nurtured, well rooted and thrives in our region.
“I am in close consultation with other leaders in our region, and we shall protect our hard-earned democracy in line with the universally acceptable principle of constitutionalism.
“As the Chairperson of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, I state without equivocation that Nigeria stands firmly with the elected government in Niger and equally conveys the absolute resolve of leaders in our sub-region that we shall not waiver or flinch on our stand to defend and preserve constitutional order.”
