The spokesman for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has issued a stern warning to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), urging them to avoid military action against Niger Republic.
Baba-Ahmed called on ECOWAS to engage in negotiations with the junta in Niger instead of turning to threats or force.
The NEF spokesman expressed a clear concern that military intervention in the region would lead to instability, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic avenues in resolving the current tensions.
Baba-Ahmed in a post on his Twitter account wrote, “This is a good time for ECOWAS to take a step back and assess the Niger Republic situation without threats and bravado.
“There is still room for some negotiations, but ECOWAS must drive the process. Nigeria in particular must use its clout to calm nerves and lead responsibly.
“Who is going to guarantee a ‘well executed military intervention’? Nigerians are against any military action.
“This will further destabilize the region. ECOWAS without Nigeria is a few countries who will not set foot in Niger. Negotiations are the best.”