ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – President Bola Tinubu has formally approached the Nigerian Senate seeking approval for military action and other sanctions against the military junta that recently seized power in Niger Republic.
On 4 August, 2023, the President’s letter was read aloud by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during a momentous session in the Upper Chamber.
The letter addressed the alarming political situation unfolding in Nigeria’s neighboring country, where a coup had led to the ousting of the democratically elected government.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, ECOWAS, the regional bloc, had unequivocally condemned the coup and vowed to take decisive measures to restore peace and democracy in the Niger Republic.
The communique issued by ECOWAS outlined a series of actions to exert pressure on the military junta and facilitate the return of the democratically elected government.
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The proposed measures included the closure and monitoring of all land borders between Nigeria and Niger, as well as reactivating border drilling exercises to tighten security. Additionally, ECOWAS sought to sever electricity supply to the Niger Republic and garner international support for implementing the communique’s provisions.
In a bid to exert further economic pressure, the communique called for blocking goods in transit to Niger, especially from Lagos and eastern seaports. Simultaneously, the Nigerian government aimed to raise awareness among its citizens about the significance of these actions through social media campaigns.
President Tinubu’s letter underscored the gravity of the situation, as he also sought to gain approval for a military buildup and deployment of personnel to ensure compliance with ECOWAS’ demands should the military junta remain unyielding.
This development represents a pivotal moment in regional politics, with Nigeria taking a firm stance against the unfolding political crisis in its neighboring nation.
As the National Assembly reviews the President’s request, the nation and the international community eagerly await the next steps in the efforts to restore democracy and stability in the Niger Republic.