…President Tinubu writes Senate, seeks support
The spectre of a possible conflict between countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Nigeria, and Niger Republic over the coup in the country, which overthrew the government of President Mohammed Bazoum on July 26, is looming.
This development is coming on the heels of the collapse of diplomatic moves to resolve the impasse. Niger Republics junta has cut-off ties with Nigeria, its former colonial ruler France, Togo, and the United States of America.
Spokesperson for Nigers coup leader, Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane said this in a national broadcast on Thursday, according to Radio France International.
Nigerias President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), sent a delegation on Thursday, led by former military Head of State, Gen. AbdulSalami Abubakar (rtd) to Niger Republic.
Recall that ECOWAS had issued a seven-day ultimatum for the re-instatement of President Mohamed Bazoum to avoid a possible clash with the junta. The junta, however, announced a termination of the military agreements and protocols signed with France and announced the end of functions for Nigers ambassadors to France, the United States, Togo and neighbouring Nigeria, which is leading ECOWAS efforts on dialogue.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has written to inform the Senate of the coup in Niger Republic and the resolutions of ECOWAS on how to return the democratically elected Government to power. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio read Tinubus letter yesterday on the floor during plenary. The president further sought support for, Military build-up and deployment of personnel for military intervention to enforce compliance of the military junta in Niger should they remain recalcitrant.
European countries have started the evacuation of their nationals in Niger, as Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea, expressed support for the coup. The military took over power in Niger Republic in July after armed troops blockaded the presidential palace in Niamey. The country had also gotten support from Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso who are also under military rule.
The President needs Senator authorisation to commit the countrys armed forces to war. Yesterday, a video surfaced online where Nigeriens were mocking and deriding President Tinubu.
