ECOWAS Chairman Tinubu Supports Nine-Month Transition Period in Niger Republic Following Coup

FCT, Abuja - The chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has expressed his support for a nine-month transition period in the Niger Republic following the coup that deposed President Mohammed Bazoum. Tinubu shared his views during a meeting with the Nigeria Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) last week, as reported by Premium Times. He noted that Nigeria had implemented a successful nine-month transition program in 1998 under the leadership of General Abdulsalami Abubakar, leading the country into a new era of democratic governance.

Tinubu believes that the model adopted in Nigeria could be replicated in the Niger Republic if the coup leaders demonstrate sincerity. This indicates that ECOWAS is open to amending its demands if the junta agrees to a reduced three-year transition period.

The African Union (AU) has responded to the coup by suspending Gabon and calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order through the conduct of free, fair, credible, and transparent elections. The AU also acknowledges the necessity of member states addressing the root causes and conditions that enable unconstitutional changes of government.

Alassane Ouattara, the President of Côte d'Ivoire, has labeled the coup plotters in the Niger Republic as terrorists. Ouattara made this declaration during the 2nd ECOWAS extraordinary summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, on August 10. He stressed that the declaration of standby forces deployed to Niger was a collective decision aimed at ending military rule in the country.

In a significant development, the military junta in the Niger Republic has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue with ECOWAS, as reported by a statement signed by Sheik Bala Lau, leader of Islamic scholars from Nigeria. This marks the first time the coup leaders have indicated a willingness to discuss matters with the regional bloc.

Addressing Root Causes of Coups

The AU's call for member states to address the root causes of coups resonates with the ongoing need to prevent such events from occurring frequently. It highlights the importance of tackling the underlying issues that create an environment conducive to these unconstitutional changes of government. By systematically addressing these root causes, countries can strive for stability, transparency, and accountable governance.

Dialogue and Transition Period

The recent willingness of the military junta in Niger to engage in dialogue with ECOWAS presents a potential avenue for resolving the political crisis. Dialogue serves as an alternative to continued militancy, allowing for peaceful negotiations towards a sustainable solution.

President Tinubu's support for a nine-month transition period draws on the success of a similar period implemented in Nigeria in 1998. By suggesting this timeframe, Tinubu aims to provide Niger with a viable roadmap for a peaceful transfer of power and the restoration of democratic governance. ECOWAS's flexibility in considering a reduced transition period indicates a willingness to collaborate with the coup leaders in Niger if they demonstrate sincerity and commitment to upholding democratic principles.

Conclusion

The support expressed by ECOWAS Chairman President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a nine-month transition period in the Niger Republic is a positive step towards resolving the political crisis. This paves the way for dialogue between the military junta and ECOWAS, offering hope for a peaceful resolution. The AU's suspension of Gabon further emphasizes the need for a return to constitutional order and the addressing of root causes that contribute to military coups. By focusing on dialogue and implementing a successful transition period, ECOWAS and the international community can play a vital role in supporting the Niger Republic on its path to democratic governance.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-05 News

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