Abuja Network News.
In a significant turn of events, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the extraordinary support and solidarity extended by the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) during the political turmoil in the Republic of Niger. This momentous development came to light when President Tinubu welcomed the Special Envoy of President Ali Bongo Ondimba and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Gabon, Mr. Hermann Immongault, at the esteemed State House in Abuja on Tuesday.
The President did not shy away from articulating his firm standpoint on military intervention in democratic governance, emphasizing that this form of interference was no longer acceptable, particularly on the African continent. He commended President Bongo, who also chairs ECCAS, for sending a special message of support and solidarity, thus reinforcing ECOWAS resolutions regarding the unconstitutional takeover of the government in Niger.
President Tinubu reassured the public that measures were being taken to prevent the exacerbation of the situation. He acknowledged the concerns of the people regarding any potential military actions, but sought to assuage their fears by affirming that the sanctions imposed would be diligently adhered to. Furthermore, he expressed his appreciation for ECCAS standing united with ECOWAS on this matter.
As Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu pledged his commitment to collaborating with President Bongo and ECCAS to restore constitutional order in Niger. He vowed to keep President Bongo informed about the actions being taken, emphasizing that ECOWAS would staunchly resist any attempts by the military junta in Niger to intimidate or harass President Mohamed Bazoum.
President Tinubu asserted, "We will work with ECCAS and keep President Bongo informed on our actions and we will continue to collaborate."
The Special Envoy conveyed his deep admiration for the leadership of ECOWAS and President Tinubu, commending the steps taken thus far to bring democracy back to Niger. He emphasized that both President Bongo and ECCAS wholeheartedly supported all ECOWAS resolutions.
He stated, "President Bongo has been following your efforts and those of other ECOWAS leaders on the situation in Niger. President Bongo and ECCAS strongly condemn the coup in Niger."
The Special Envoy assured President Tinubu of his President's unwavering support, emphasizing that President Bongo was fully aligned with ECOWAS and its leadership in their concerted efforts to restore democratic governance in Niger. Noting that events in West Africa had far-reaching consequences for Central Africa, especially in light of Boko Haram attacks in Cameroon, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and the refugee situation in Chad, the Special Envoy underscored the imperative of finding a solution to the crisis within ECOWAS.
As discussions continue, it is expected that the firm solidarity between ECCAS and ECOWAS will be effectively communicated to the military authorities in Niger during their forthcoming meeting.
With President Tinubu at the helm, ECOWAS remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, peace, and stability in Niger while setting an exemplary precedent for the entire African continent.
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 15, 2023
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