The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

In the midst of the political turmoil in the Niger Republic following a military coup d’état that removed the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, from office, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has taken a stand for peace and stability in the ECOWAS sub-region. The Northern leadership, under the aegis of the ACF, has called upon President Bola Tinubu to avoid going into war with the Niger military junta and instead seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

The Call for Dialogue

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

The ACF, represented by its General Secretary, Murtala Aliyu, issued a statement on Friday, urging for a peaceful dialogue to resolve the crisis in the Niger Republic. The forum believes that military deployment and intervention, while seemingly a swift solution, may not guarantee lasting peace and stability in the ECOWAS sub-region.

ECOWAS’ Stance and Nigeria’s Role

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has responded to the coup in the Niger Republic by directing the closure of land and air borders between member states. Additionally, ECOWAS has given a seven-day ultimatum to the Niger military junta to restore the ousted President, Mohamed Bazoum.

As a prominent member of ECOWAS, Nigeria, under the able Chairmanship of President Bola Tinubu, holds a significant role in shaping the response to the crisis in Niger. President Tinubu has written to the Senate, seeking support for military intervention if the junta proves recalcitrant, aiming to restore democracy in the ECOWAS country.

ACF’s Concerns and Caution

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

While the ACF acknowledges ECOWAS’ position and its efforts to pressure the perpetrators, the forum cautions against making military intervention a prerequisite for restoring democracy in the region. The ACF emphasizes that historical antecedents and mutual interests between Nigeria and Niger should be considered, along with a thoughtful evaluation of the consequences of using military force.

Balancing the Need for Democracy and Regional Stability

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

The ACF recognizes the importance of restoring democratic rule in Niger. However, it urges the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy over military force in resolving the current impasse. The forum stresses that a military intervention might provide a temporary solution, but it could lead to unintended repercussions for Nigeria as a leader and for the entire ECOWAS region.

The Path of Dialogue and Diplomacy

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

ACF advocates for a diplomatic approach to address the crisis in Niger, ensuring peaceful coexistence with the neighboring country and promoting regional stability. Dialogue can offer a platform for understanding the concerns and interests of all parties involved, leading to mutually agreeable solutions that uphold democratic values and human rights.

Implications for Nigeria and the ECOWAS Region

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

Nigeria, being a significant player in the ECOWAS community, holds the responsibility of maintaining regional stability. As the Chair of ECOWAS, President Bola Tinubu’s leadership becomes pivotal in guiding the regional response to the Niger crisis. By advocating for dialogue and diplomacy, Nigeria can reinforce its commitment to democratic principles and showcase its ability to handle complex regional challenges responsibly.

Conclusion

The Northern Leadership’s Call for Dialogue

The Arewa Consultative Forum’s call for dialogue comes at a critical juncture in the Niger Republic’s history. In the face of a military coup and regional tensions, the path chosen by Nigeria and ECOWAS could shape the future trajectory of the entire ECOWAS sub-region. Emphasizing dialogue over military intervention aligns with the broader values of democracy and peaceful coexistence.

As the crisis unfolds, the international community watches closely. The hope remains that through the combined efforts of ECOWAS member states, led by President Bola Tinubu, and constructive engagements with the Niger military junta, a peaceful resolution can be achieved, preserving democracy and stability in the region.