Coup: Tinubu stops ECOWAS military from invading Niger Republic

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has stated that he has been restraining fellow leaders within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) from executing their collective ultimatum aimed at the military junta in Niger Republic.

During a meeting with a delegation of Islamic scholars (Ulamas) on Thursday, President Tinubu expressed the urgency of expediting the ongoing negotiations with the military junta to prevent ECOWAS’s punitive action from coming into effect.

This move comes in the wake of the Ulamas’ involvement in discussions with the military junta to facilitate the reinstatement of constitutional democratic governance in Niger Republic.

Sheikh Bala Lau led the delegation that visited President Tinubu at the Villa, where he provided a comprehensive update on the outcome of their interactions with the Niger junta. The briefing followed the Ulamas’ recent visits to Niger Republic.

Islamic leaders reported that the military junta demonstrated a willingness to engage in deeper dialogue with ECOWAS. This approach aligns with ongoing efforts to avert armed conflict, as the Niger military council officials exhibit a more detailed acceptance of ECOWAS’s stance.

President Tinubu, however, stressed his commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, despite mounting pressure from more aggressive individuals urging swift intervention. He revealed, “I am managing a very serious situation. If you take ECOWAS aside, other people will react, those who are outside of our control. I am the one holding those sides back. I am the one holding back ECOWAS.”

Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, he added, “Even this morning, I have been inundated with phone calls on the readiness of countries with their military force and contributions. However, I told them to wait. I am meeting with the Ulamas and I will get back to you.”

President Tinubu emphasized the necessity of holding the military junta accountable for jeopardizing the well-being of the people of Niger Republic. He asserted, “They cannot use the gun given to them to protect the sovereignty of the country and turn it against the people of the country.”