As the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) holds an extraordinary summit to discuss the crisis in Niger following a military coup, various organizations and groups have cautioned against the use of force and military intervention. The crisis emerged after a military group led by Gen. Abdourhamane Tchiani toppled the civilian government of President Mohamed Bazoum. Despite diplomatic efforts, the situation remains unresolved.
Key points and reactions from various organizations include:
Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA): This group, comprising Catholic Cardinals, Archbishops, and Bishops in West Africa, called for dialogue and reconciliation instead of military intervention. They cited the tragic consequences of the military intervention in Libya in 2011 and urged a peaceful approach to resolving the crisis in Niger.
Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA): NSCIA warned against stringent economic sanctions and military intervention, which could worsen citizens’ suffering and weaken bilateral relationships. They advocated for peaceful dialogue rather than resorting to violence.
Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF): This group emphasized Nigeria’s primary responsibility to ensure peace and security within its own borders, urging the government not to become entangled in the crisis in Niger.
National Democratic Coalition (NADECO USA): NADECO USA condemned the planned military intervention, stating that it would deepen Nigeria’s economic crisis. They called for a bloodless resolution to the political impasse in Niger.
International Civil Group, Egalitarian Mission for Africa (EMA): EMA filed a suit against President Bola Tinubu and others at the ECOWAS Court of Justice to halt the planned military invasion of Niger, arguing that it would violate ECOWAS treaties and international laws.
National Observatory: The National Observatory urged caution in considering options for resolving the crisis to prevent being drawn into a proxy war situation of foreign powers.
ECOWAS Summit and Nigerian Government: The Nigerian government, under the leadership of ECOWAS Chairman President Bola Tinubu, has widened consultations internationally and domestically to address the crisis. President Tinubu ordered financial sanctions on entities and individuals related to the military junta.
These reactions emphasize the importance of a peaceful and diplomatic approach to resolving the crisis in Niger and highlight concerns about the potential consequences of military intervention on both the citizens of Niger and the broader West African region.