Niger coup saved Nigeria from impending danger – Gen. Tchiani
General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of the military junta in the Republic of Niger, has stated that the recent coup against President Mohammad Bazoum was carried out with good intentions. The coup aimed to prevent an imminent threat that would have affected not only Niger Republic but also Nigeria.
In response to the coup, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has appealed to the Federal Government to address the issues of corruption, insecurity, and skewed appointments within Nigeria, rather than engaging in conflict with Niger Republic.
General Tchiani expressed his disappointment that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) did not listen to their side of the story before issuing an ultimatum.
However, during a meeting with Nigeria’s intervention team, which consisted of prominent Islamic scholars, General Tchiani expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue and explore peaceful solutions to the political crisis.
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The intervention team, representing President Bola Tinubu, conveyed their position that the crisis in Niger should be resolved through diplomatic means. They emphasized the importance of peace and dialogue over war.
Niger Republic’s Prime Minister, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, confirmed that General Tchiani is open to talks with ECOWAS and expressed hope that the sanctions imposed on Niger Republic would be lifted after fruitful discussions.
In a separate development, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria urged the Federal Government to focus on combating corruption, insecurity, and other issues that afflict the country rather than engaging in conflict with their neighbors in Niger Republic.
Furthermore, Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, emphasized the importance of prioritizing diplomacy to resolve the standoff between ECOWAS and the coup leaders in Niger Republic. Obi highlighted the need for a diplomatic dialogue that takes into account the interests of all parties involved.
As the situation in Niger Republic continues to grab international attention, it is crucial that diplomatic efforts remain the primary focus in resolving the crisis and ensuring the return to a representative democratic government. Nigeria’s leadership role in the region should not be underestimated.
