Former House of Representatives member, Honourable Robinson Uwak, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to refrain from any intentions to invade the Niger Republic due to the ongoing political crisis in the nation.
This comes in response to reports of member-state troops expressing readiness to participate in a standby force prepared to intervene in the Francophone country due to its refusal to reverse the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. This commitment was announced during a meeting held last Thursday in Accra, Ghana.
However, Uwak emphasized, in a statement released yesterday, that it is crucial to maintain the diplomatic efforts that have already been initiated with the leadership of the junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani. He also stressed the importance of establishing specific timelines for the restoration of democratic governance.
Uwak also commended the efforts of the former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for his willingness to engage with Niger’s military rulers and explore avenues of dialogue, despite encountering obstacles during his initial visit.
Highlighting Nigeria’s own ongoing security challenges on multiple domestic fronts, Robinson Uwak underlined that the nation cannot afford to engage in another international military conflict so close to its borders.
“Let Mr. President suspend any talk of military action and sustain the dialogue option, as this would yield long-term benefits for regional peace and stability within the ECOWAS sub-region,” Uwak said.
“The President should take a deep look at the impact of any war with our neighboring country, the post-traumatic disorders, the severance of cross-border filial relations, the destruction, and the injuries that may probably not heal. Let us avoid this war by all means,” Uwak added.
Uwak prayed for the return of peace not only in Nigeria but the entire West African sub-region.
