Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, has called on the Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS) to refrain from resorting to military actions in Niger Republic following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.

Atiku emphasized that the crisis in Niger Republic requires diplomatic engagements and stressed the importance of sustaining channels for dialogue. He warned that any military intervention by ECOWAS could worsen the situation in Niger.

“As the ECOWAS continues to work towards reinstating democracy in the Republic of Niger, it must be reinforced that the regional body should not travel the road of military hostilities that may exacerbate the status quo. “The crisis in the Republic of Niger requires diplomatic engagements, and that must mean that the channels for dialogue should be well sustained.”

In a statement, Atiku expressed concern over the growing tension caused by the military intervention in Niger and the increasing number of states in the sub-region experiencing military interventions over the past three years.

As Nigeria is expected to take a leadership role in resolving the political crisis in Niger, Atiku commended the efforts of ECOWAS so far. However, he urged the regional body not to pursue military hostilities and instead prioritize peaceful conflict resolution through diplomatic means.

Atiku acknowledged the challenging time for the West African region and called for prompt action to resolve the crisis in Niger with democracy as the ultimate victor.