The ECOWAS Parliament experienced division on Saturday regarding the use of military action to address the political situation in Niger Republic and reinstate civil rule.
While some members suggested focusing on preventing military involvement in politics within the region, others emphasized diplomacy and dialogue as the most effective means of resolving the crisis.
During the virtual extraordinary meeting discussing the Niger political crisis, 22 parliamentarians participated.
Opponents of military intervention pointed out the potential economic hardships that could befall the people of Niger if invaded.
Ali Djibo, representing Niger Republic, noted that the crisis had led to the closure of around 9,000 schools.
He stated, “Engaging in war would worsen the economic challenges already faced by the sub-region’s population. Currently, over a thousand trucks filled with goods are stranded at the border.”
Djibo also raised concerns about potential military coups in other ECOWAS countries, questioning the feasibility of mobilizing troops to fight those countries’ military forces.
Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante (Rivers) emphasized addressing the root causes of coups in ECOWAS countries and called for attentive action.
Some ECOWAS Parliament members advocating for military intervention in Niger argued that overreliance on diplomacy had contributed to an increase in military takeovers within the West African sub-region.
Adebayo Balogun contributed by clarifying that ECOWAS leaders were suggesting military action to remove the junta, not advocating for a full-scale war.
He reminded everyone that Niger had ratified ECOWAS’ revised protocol on non-military intervention.
Additionally, Bashir Dawodu believed that the organization should consider the military option while simultaneously exerting pressure on the coup leaders and engaging in dialogue.
NAN
