Abdourahmane Tiani, leader of Niger Republic’s military
junta, says the country is ready to defend itself against any form of invasion
from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Speaking in a televised address on Saturday night, Tiani said
the country is not keen on war but will resist any “manifestations of it”.
According to the coup leader, “a military intervention will
not be the walk in the park some people seem to think”.
“Neither the army nor the people of Niger want war, but we will
resist any manifestation of it,” Tiani added.
“There’s availability
for any dialogue, provided that it takes into account the aspirations of the
people of Niger.”
PRP: WAR NOT IN
NIGERIA’S INTERESTS
Joining other Nigerian opposition parties to warn against
military intervention by ECOWAS, the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) on Sunday
said the option of war is “not in the interests of Nigeria, Niger and ECOWAS”.
Falalu Bello, PRP national chairman, said military
intervention could lead to the spread of violence and instability in the West
African region.
“There exists an excellent neighbourliness and good
relationship between the two countries that are closely linked economically,
culturally and geographically,” the statement reads.
“It will be tragic if these relationships for centuries are
spoilt. Niger Republic depends on Nigeria for trade and investment, and Nigeria
depends on Niger for some products.
“A war would disrupt this economic interdependence and harm
both countries.”
The PRP urged President Bola Tinubu, who is also the ECOWAS
chairperson, to painstakingly pursue dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the
situation.
Mali and Burkina Faso, both West African countries also
under military rule, had backed the military coup in Niger, pledging to take up
arms if there is any foreign intervention.
Last week, after meeting with a mediation team comprising
Islamic scholars from Nigeria, Niger’s military junta said it was open to
dialogue.
The junta has also said it will transition to civilian rule
within three years.
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