An ECOWAS delegation’s attempt to mediate peace with the military rulers was unsuccessful due to their refusal to meet.
However, on Wednesday, videos circulated featuring Sanusi, whose Tijjaniya sect holds significant influence in Niger.
Sanusi serves as the Khalifa of the sect within Nigeria.
The former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) engaged with military leadership subsequent to the junta cancelling a meeting with representatives from the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and a senior US diplomat.
The esteemed Nigerian economist met with Junta leaders alongside the Sultan of Damagaran.
Sanusi went there to open the door for negotiation with the junta, Daily Trust reports.
Sources said, “His Highness took the trip in his personal capacity but with the knowledge of President Bola Tinubu following his concerns about the impasse and the likely consequences it is already having on Nigeria-Nigeria relations and the citizens of the two countries.”
The meeting takes place a day prior to the ECOWAS leaders’ assembly in Abuja.
The Chairman of ECOWAS, President Bola Tinubu, had planned a Thursday meeting following the lapse of the 7-day ultimatum set by the regional bloc for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum.
ECOWAS had imposed sanctions on Niger and even hinted at a potential military intervention, a stance that faced significant opposition, particularly within Nigeria.
Sources informed the Daily Trust that Sanusi’s purpose was to initiate negotiations with the junta.
Here are pictures from the meeting:
