Military action in Niger may lead to mass killings

President Bola Tinubu recently notified the National Assembly about the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) proposed military action against the Nigerien military junta, which seized power in the country.

In response, the Northern Senators Forum rejected the option of war, advocating instead for political and diplomatic measures to restore democratic governance in Niger.

CNG’s spokesperson, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, stated in a Saturday statement that a complex international power struggle is unfolding in Niger, involving Western powers, Russia, China, and other African countries. Any military intervention could be met with resistance, potentially leading to a messy and protracted conflict.

The group highlighted that in Nigeria, public opinion was overwhelmingly against any Nigeria-led military aggression in Niger, especially considering the nation’s ongoing economic challenges.

CNG called on the Nigerian government to pursue political and diplomatic channels first, urging the junta in Niger to return power to the democratically elected government. They emphasized that military intervention must be an absolute last resort, given Nigeria’s current domestic vulnerabilities and national interests.

As the situation in Niger unfolds, the region remains on edge, and diplomatic efforts are being urged to resolve the crisis and maintain stability.