Niger Coup: NNPJ urges ECOWAS to prioritize diplomacy for stability
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Nigeria Network of Peace Journalists (NNPJ) in Kaduna State has appealed to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is also the current Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, to prioritize peaceful dialogue over military intervention following the recent coup in Niger Republic.
Ibrahima Yakubu, the team leader of NNPJ, emphasized the importance of sustaining dialogue and peaceful negotiations with Niger Republic to maintain regional unity.
The media network, alongside various media organizations across the country, is advocating for peaceful talks to resolve the situation.
NNPJ urged against any form of military action and called for the use of diplomacy to address the crisis.
This sentiment is shared by influential figures in Nigeria, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and legal expert Femi Falana, who emphasize that diplomacy and sanctions should be the preferred approach to restoring democratic rule.
ECOWAS, supported by Western countries and the United Nations, issued a 7-day ultimatum to the military junta to reinstate the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum. This ultimatum will expire tomorrow.
Prominent voices also stress the significance of media responsibility in covering the Niger Republic situation, urging restraint and peaceful solutions.
The utilization of diplomacy is seen as vital for effective communication, negotiation, image management, and policy implementation to address future challenges in the Sahel region.
The appeal extends to African countries, urging the promotion and preservation of democratic governance for progress and stability across the continent.
