By President Bola Tinubu’s Staunch Supporters and APC Chieftains Caution Against ECOWAS Invasion of Niger Republic
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
In a critical development that has captured the attention of the international community, prominent Nigerian figures including President Bola Tinubu’s staunch supporters and high-ranking members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), such as the ex-governor of Kaduna, Nasir Elrufai, and former Aviation Minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, have emerged as prominent voices cautioning against the potential ECOWAS invasion of the Niger Republic.
Background: The Niger Impasse and ECOWAS Response
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
The genesis of this latest concern can be traced back to the military coup that unfolded in the Niger Republic. The coup plotters have conveyed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) their intentions to embark on a three-year transition plan aimed at restoring democratic governance in the country. However, the ECOWAS has rejected this plan, leading to escalating tensions and apprehensions.
A Plea for Peace and Prudence by Nasir Elrufai
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
Former governor of Kaduna state, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent member of the APC and a staunch supporter of President Bola Tinubu, took to Twitter to express his concern and offer his perspective on the matter. In a tweet, he cautioned against any form of military intervention in the Niger Republic, likening such an act to waging war against brothers. He eloquently put it, “TUESDAY THOUGHT: As ECOWAS beats the drums of war, I recall the 1970s rock classic by Dire Straits – ‘Brothers in Arms’. A war within our subregion is a war between brothers. Indeed, the people of the Niger Republic are one and the same as those living in Northern Nigeria. Let us bend therefore over backwards to avoid this civil war between brothers.”
Elrufai’s standpoint echoes the sentiments of many within the APC who advocate for diplomatic solutions to conflicts and urge for unity within the West African subregion.
Chief Femi Fani-Kayode’s Economic and Security Concerns
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
Another notable figure who has raised an alarm against military intervention in the Niger Republic is Chief Femi Fani-Kayode. In a compelling essay entitled “BEWARE OF COUP BELT,” Fani-Kayode articulated his apprehensions about the potential consequences of an armed conflict in the region. He directed his message towards President Bola Tinubu, imploring him to exercise caution and wisdom in dealing with the situation.
Fani-Kayode’s central argument revolves around the potential adverse impacts on the economy and security of Nigeria. He emphasizes that launching an attack on the Niger Republic could potentially create a corridor for extremist groups, such as ISIS, AQIM, and ISWAP, to infiltrate neighboring countries, posing an imminent threat to the entire Sahel region. The dire scenario of a terrorist zone emerging from such circumstances is a stark reminder of the far-reaching ramifications that an ill-considered military action can bring.
Broader International Response and Implications
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
The concerns raised by prominent figures within Nigeria have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. The African Union (AU) has taken a decisive step by suspending the membership of the Niger Republic due to the recent military coup that ousted President Mohammad Bazoum from office. This suspension is widely perceived as a diplomatic message, potentially indicating AU’s support for ECOWAS’ stance on military intervention.
Notably, nations such as Russia, South Africa, Algeria, and Libya have all expressed their commitment to the restoration of democracy in the Niger Republic. This international alignment further underscores the significance of the situation and the delicate balance between ensuring stability and safeguarding democratic values.
Conclusion: A Call for Prudent Diplomacy
Elrufai, Fani-Kayode caution ECOWAS
As the discussions around the potential ECOWAS invasion of the Niger Republic continue to unfold, the voices of caution and prudence offered by President Bola Tinubu’s staunch supporters and APC chieftains carry considerable weight. Their insights remind us of the complex interdependencies within the West African subregion and the need to prioritize diplomatic solutions over military actions.
The collective plea for peace, unity, and careful consideration of the potential consequences resonates across borders. The opinions expressed by Nasir Elrufai and Chief Femi Fani-Kayode serve as a reminder that decisions taken today can have far-reaching implications for the stability and security of the entire region.
