Nigeria’s Intervention Team Advocates Dialogue in Niger’s Political Crisis
In a significant development aimed at resolving the political turmoil in Niger, Nigeria’s Intervention Team, composed of prominent Islamic scholars, engaged in a crucial dialogue with the leaders of the recent coup. The talks took place in Niger’s capital, Niamey, where both sides displayed a willingness to explore peaceful solutions to the crisis.
Led by Sheik Bala Lau, the National Chairman of Jamatul Izalatu Bida Waikamatu Sunnah, the Islamic Ulammas delegation conveyed the concerns of President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. This initiative was undertaken in response to the ECOWAS leaders’ demand for the reinstatement of former President Bazoum, whose removal triggered the political impasse.
The key objective of the Intervention Team’s visit was to encourage the coup leaders, particularly General Abdourahmane Tchiani, to embrace dialogue as the primary means to resolve the crisis. General Tchiani, receptive to the delegation’s presence, expressed a readiness to consider diplomatic solutions and welcomed the team’s intervention.
During the discussions, General Tchiani lamented the lack of an opportunity for the coup leaders to present their perspective before ECOWAS leaders issued their ultimatum. He defended the coup as a preemptive measure to counter imminent threats not only to Niger but also to neighboring Nigeria.
In light of the historical ties between Niger Republic and Nigeria, General Tchiani emphasized the importance of amicable resolutions between the two nations. He acknowledged the fraternal relationship and the shared responsibility to address issues without resorting to conflict.
Following the meeting, Sheik Ahmad Abdulrahman, Chief Missioner of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria and a member of the intervention team, affirmed that both parties engaged in fruitful discussions. The team recognized that the path to a peaceful solution lies in dialogue, and they intend to report back to President Tinubu with their findings.
The delegation comprised scholars from various Islamic sects in Nigeria, including Sheik Kabiru Gombe, Sheik Yakubu Musa Hassan Katsina, Sheik Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi, Dr. Khalid Aliya, Sheik Karibullah Nasiru Kabara, Sheik Ahmad Abdurahman, Professor Salisu Sheri, Sheik Nasiru Abdul Muhayuid, Professor Mansur Sokoto, and Alhaji Mele Kyari.
In conclusion, the proactive initiative by Nigeria’s Intervention Team to engage in dialogue with the coup leaders in Niger signifies a collective effort to find peaceful solutions to the political crisis. The emphasis on diplomacy and constructive communication underscores the commitment to maintaining regional stability and harmony.