In the wake of the Economic Community of West African States‘ (ECOWAS) ultimatum to Niger’s junta to reinstate President Mohammed Bazoum or face sanctions, including military action, prominent Islamic cleric Dr. Muhammad Sani Umar Rijiyar Lemo has joined fellow Nigerians in voicing concerns over the potential consequences.
Addressing Muslim faithful in Kano on Friday, the Kano-based cleric emphasized that the bond between Nigeria and Niger Republic goes beyond mere neighborhood; it is one of brotherhood.
As such, he urged Nigeria to carefully reflect on the fraternal relations it has shared with both the state and people of Niger.
Dr. Muhammad Sani Umar Rijiyar Lemo expressed his belief that any military intervention in Niger could exacerbate the already existing socio-economic challenges in the Sahel region.
Instead, he advised ECOWAS to prioritize peaceful resolutions to the ongoing situation.
The cleric said, “ECOWAS should devise peaceful means that can work for the citizens of Niger and the region without any rancour and humanitarian issues.
“Everyone knows that war, especially at this moment, comes with several consequences. We won’t know how and when it ends.
“Now that the world polarized with every country alienated to a certain powers that be and Niger is rich with huge uranium deposits that is most sought after by these powers. They have interest there.
“There’s already a lot hostility in almost the entire Sahel region, so if another one sets in in Niger, will only heighten the humanitarian crisis in the region. ”
“You shouldn’t put out fire here, and one kindle worse than that at another point. It’s Nigeriens who would suffer most if military action is taken.
He further added that “Our leaders shouldn’t act as if they’re being teleguided by the West or former colonialists. Our peace shouldn’t be destabilized just for the sake of restoration of democratic order.
“We’re reiterating call to the leaders especially from the North who are sharing shores with Niger to tell the federal government that the planned military action against Niger is rescinded.
“Our Members of the Parliament, elites and even journalists should sensitize against the proposed military action and make sure it didn’t work out,” he added.
It will be recalled that president Tinubu had sent envoys to Niger, Libya and Algeria for talks aimed at finding an amicable solution to the conflict pending the end of the 7 days ultimatum ECOWAS gave Niger Coupist to reinstate Bazoum.
