ECOWAS Chairman and President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu says a solution must be proffered for the political crisis in Niger Republic to sustain lasting peace in West Africa and the entire African continent.
He has therefore called on his counterparts to sustain the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.
President Tinubu made the call in his remarks at the opening of an extraordinary summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS in Abuja.
He said: “Today’s Summit provides a significant opportunity to meticulously review and assess the progress made since our last gathering. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of our interventions and identify any gaps or challenges that may have hindered progress. Only through this comprehensive assessment can we collectively chart a sustainable path toward lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in Niger.
“Moreso, in reaffirming our relentless commitment to democracy, human rights, and the well-being of the people of Niger, it is crucial that we prioritize diplomatic negotiations and dialogue as the bedrock of our approach. We must engage all parties involved, including the coup leaders, in earnest discussions to convince them to relinquish power and reinstate President Bazoum. We must exhaust all avenues of engagement to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance in Niger.”
“More specifically, as leaders of our respective nations, we must recognize that the political crisis in Niger not only poses a threat to the stability of the nation but also has far-reaching implications for the entire West African region. By remaining steadfast in our adherence to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law, we can restore peace, stability, and prosperity in the Republic of Niger, thereby fostering an environment conducive to growth and development for all,” President Tinubu Said.
The ECOWAS Chairman expressed optimism that Thursday’s summit would find a lasting solution to the political crisis in Niger.
He said; “I am confident that this 2nd ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on the Socio-Political Situation in the Republic of Niger will be a defining moment in our journey towards a stronger, more resilient, and integrated West Africa. Let us seize this opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow Africans as we strive to build a future defined by peace, progress, and prosperity.”
He appreciated his colleagues for responding to a short-notice invitation to the extraordinary summit.
President Tinubu said; “I extend my gratitude to each of you for your attention to this critical issue. I trust that our deliberations will be productive and fruitful, leading us to find an amicable solution to the political crisis in Niger. As we continue to work together in solidarity and harmony, we can ensure a prosperous future for the entire West African region.”
Thursday’s summit marks the second time ECOWAS leaders are meeting in Abuja to find a solution to the impasse in Niger Republic, following a coup in that country, where the democratically elected leader of the country, Mohammed Bazoum was ousted by the presidential guards.
ECOWAS had imposed sanctions on Niger Republic to force a reinstatement of democratic governance but no truce has been reached yet with the coup plotters.
A communique is expected at the end of the meeting, where decisions reached at the summit would be made public; as the regional leaders are meeting behind closed doors.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
