Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to avoid resorting to military hostilities in Niger Republic following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
Atiku emphasized the need for diplomatic engagements to address the crisis in Niger Republic, stressing the importance of sustaining channels for dialogue. He cautioned that any military action by ECOWAS could worsen the situation in the country.
“As the ECOWAS continues to work towards reinstating democracy in the Republic of Niger, it must be reinforced that the regional body should not travel the road of military hostilities that may exacerbate the status quo. “The crisis in the Republic of Niger requires diplomatic engagements, and that must mean that the channels for dialogue should be well sustained.”
He expressed concern over the escalating tension in the West African sub-region due to the military intervention in Niger Republic. Atiku noted that the increasing number of states experiencing military intervention in the last three years is troubling.
As a regional leader, Nigeria is expected to play a pivotal role in resolving the political leadership crisis in Niger and ensuring the restoration of democratic governance. Atiku praised ECOWAS for its commendable efforts in reinstating democracy in Niger and urged the regional body to avoid any actions that might escalate the situation.
Atiku called for prompt and peaceful conflict resolution in Niger Republic, stressing that democracy should be the ultimate goal during these challenging times in the West African region.