The Northern Senators caucus in the 10th National Assembly has advocated diplomatic channel to address the political impasse in Niger Republic.
Recall, the government of President Mohammed Bazoum was toppled by the presidential guard.
Rising from a meeting on Friday, the caucus led by Senator Abdul Ningi noted with concern and condemned entirely the unfortunate development in Niger Republic, where the military forcefully upstaged a democratically elected government of President Mohammed Bazoum.
However, the caucus also said it is against the use of military force until other avenues are exhausted, saying “the consequences will be casualties among the innocentcitizens who go about their daily business. Besides, about seven northern states whoshare border with Niger Republic namely; Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Yobe and Borno will be negatively affected”.
The Northern Senators also took cognizance of the efforts of the ECOWAS leadersunder the chairmanship of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in resolving thesituation in Niger Republic. “The emphasis, however should be focused on political anddiplomatic means to restore democratic government in Niger Republic”.
“We are also aware of the situation of Mali, Burkina Faso and Libya, which may affectthe seven Northern states, if military force is used. There is serious implication for ourcountry, if military force is used without exhausting all the diplomatic channels”.
Meanwhile, the spokesman of the caucus, Senator Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, who addressed newsmen shortly after the meeting said “As democrats and representatives of the people we hereby urge our colleagues to observe due diligence in invoking section 5 sub section (4) (a) and (b)”
