By Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim
In a swift and necessary response to the recent military coup in Niger Republic, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken decisive measures aimed at restoring what they described as “democracy” to its right place.
This development follows closely the military’s assumption of power, effectively toppling the democratically elected President, Mohammed Bazoum. Amid a backdrop of mixed emotions—ranging from sorrow to scattered protests regarding ECOWAS’s intervention, it is pivotal that ECOWAS adopts a cautious and calculated stance.
While the military’s coup has indeed achieved its objective and garnered certain support from the citizens of Niger, it is imperative that Nigeria avoids any hasty decisions that might lead to conflict with its neighbouring nation. Instead, a meticulous and diplomatic approach should be diligently pursued in order to catalyze a reconsideration of the recent power transition.
Therefore, opting for a path of military confrontation between these closely interconnected nations would undoubtedly yield adverse consequences. Such a course of action would only amplify the hardships already faced by the citizens of both Nigeria and Niger, compounding the challenges further, particularly in light of recent subsidy removal.
It is worth noting that the concerted efforts previously undertaken by the West African community should exert substantial pressure on the coup leaders, prompting them to yield to international expectations and responsibilities during this interim period. In the midst of these deliberations, ECOWAS must exercise restraint and refrain from issuing threats of war against its neighbouring counterpart. By doing so, ECOWAaS can set a strategic precedent for regional conflict resolution and cooperation.
Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim is a multiple award-winning journalist and AIJC Fellow, Wits University. He can be reached via awwalbinibrahim@gmail.com
Muhammad Auwal Ibrahim 