Tinubu briefs Senate on plan to deploy troops to Niger Republic

President Bola Tinubu has officially communicated with the National Assembly regarding the proposed military action and other sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against the coupists in Niger Republic.

In a letter addressed to the Senate and read at plenary by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu conveyed ECOWAS’s strong condemnation of the coup and its resolution to restore the democratically elected government in Niger.

The letter outlined the measures proposed by ECOWAS to bring about peace and stability in the region, including the closure and monitoring of all land borders with Niger Republic, the reactivation of border drilling exercises, and the cutting off of electricity supply to the country. International support will be mobilized to implement the provisions of the ECOWAS communique.

Furthermore, commercial and special flights to and from Niger Republic will be prevented, and goods in transit to the country, especially from Lagos and eastern seaports, will be subject to blockade.

Tinubu also highlighted the importance of sensitizing both Nigerians and Nigeriens about the necessity of these actions, particularly through social media. In addition, military personnel will be deployed to enforce compliance with the military junta in Niger, should they remain recalcitrant.

The ECOWAS-led initiative aims to restore democratic governance and stability in Niger Republic following the recent political upheaval. Tinubu’s communication to the National Assembly signifies Nigeria’s commitment to supporting regional efforts to uphold democratic values and the rule of law in neighboring countries.