West Africa
Niger coup: Northern Senators move against use of military power
***Advocate diplomatic means to address situation
***Frown at economic, other sanctions.
Thpe Northern Senators Caucus of the 10th Senate under the leadership of Sen. Abdul Ahmad Ningi, has condemn the unfortunate development in Niger Republic, where the military forcefully upstaged a democratically elected government of President Mohammed Bazoum.
The Spokesperson of the
Forum, Sen. Suleiman A. Kawu Sumaila, in a statement said the Northern Senators haven taken cognizance of the efforts of the ECOWAS leaders under the chairmanship of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in resolving the situation in Niger Republic however want the emphasis to be focused on political and diplomatic means to restore democratic government in Niger Republic.
“We also take exception to use of the of military force until other avenues as mentioned above are exhausted as the consequences will be casualties among the innocent citizens who go about their daily business.
“Besides, about seven northern states who shared border with Niger Republic namely Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Yobe and Borno will be negatively affected.
“We are also aware of the situation of Mali, Burkina Faso and Libya, which may affect the seven Northern states, if military force is used. There is serious implication for our country, if military force is used without exhausting all the diplomatic channels.
“As democrats and representatives of the people we are here by urging our colleagues to observe due diligence in invoking section 5 sub section (4) (a) and (b) of 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended.