The Nigerian President And ECOWAS Bloc’s Military Intervention: A Questionable Move -By Hon. Mohammed Shettima

The recent military coup in the Republic of Niger has sparked concerns among the Nigerian President and the ECOWAS bloc regarding the plan to employ military force against the military junta in Niger. However, it is crucial to highlight that this coup is an internal matter that does not directly involve Nigeria. This article aims to caution the Nigerian President and ECOWAS bloc against military intervention in Niger, considering several important factors.

Internal Issue, not Nigeria’s concern:
The coup in Niger was primarily an internal matter, with no direct connection to Nigeria. As such, it is essential to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Niger and allow them to handle their internal affairs independently.

Questionable Legitimacy:
Mohammed Bazoum’s victory in the election wasn’t universally accepted by the Nigerien people and some international communities. Allegations of political sabotage, electoral irregularities, and crackdowns on opposition have cast doubts on the legitimacy of his presidency. This internal dissent should be resolved through peaceful dialogue and democratic processes, rather than external military intervention.

Perceived Foreign Imposition:
Many Nigeriens view President Bazoum as a foreigner imposed upon them due to his Arab heritage and minority status. Such perceptions may stem from historical tensions and the country’s past experiences with military coups. This highlights the need for Nigeriens to determine their own political destiny, free from external interference.

Historical and Socioeconomic Ties:
The historical brotherhood and socioeconomic ties between the northern part of Nigeria and the Republic of Niger predate the existence of Nigeria. These shared interests and historical connections call for a cautious approach in addressing the ongoing crisis in Niger, as it could have far-reaching implications for the stability of the region.

Popular Support for the Coup:
The military coup in Niger has received widespread support from the citizens of the country. This indicates a complex socio-political situation that should be carefully analyzed before any external intervention is considered. Disregarding the will of the Nigerien people could lead to further instability and resentment towards external actors.

National Interest:
The focus should be shifted towards addressing pressing issues within Nigeria’s own boundaries, such as terrorism, economic crises, national disintegration, and political instability. By diverting resources and attention towards military intervention in Niger, Nigeria risks neglecting its own internal challenges.

Security Crisis in the Sahel Region:
Niger plays a vital role in tackling security challenges in the Sahel region. The country actively combats human trafficking, intercontinental migration, and the outflow of weapons and jihadists from Libya. Any destabilization in Niger could have dire consequences for regional security, making a cautious approach imperative.

Prioritize democracy elsewhere:

While pro-democracy advocates may argue for intervention in Niger, it is crucial to consider the overall context of dictatorship and political instability in Africa. Numerous African countries have faced severe cases of crackdowns on opposition, internal uprisings, and military confrontations, which have resulted in massive human suffering. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritize addressing these issues and shining a spotlight on countries facing more severe challenges than Niger.

In light of the above considerations, it is crucial for the Nigerian President and the ECOWAS bloc to reevaluate their plans for military intervention in Niger. Respecting the sovereignty of the Republic of Niger, promoting dialogue, and assisting with internal mediation efforts would be more productive in resolving the crisis. Focusing on addressing Nigeria’s internal challenges should also take precedence, ensuring stability and progress within the country.