The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), an umbrella body for Muslims, headed by the Sultan to f Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has cautioned against military action to in efforts to restore democracy in Niger Republic.
On July 26, Muhammadou Bazoum, the elected president of Niger was over thrown in a military coup d’etat led by Brigadier General Abdoulrahame Tchiani.
ECOWAS heads of state and governments had at the end of their 51st Extraordinary Summit held in Abuja on July 30, 2023 issued a one week ultimatum for coupists to return power to the Bazoum, or face a range of sanctions including, military intervention.
However, the JNI, in a statement on Saturday in Kaduna, said military intervention could have unintended consequences that may impact the peace and stability on Nigeria and Niger.
The statement signed by Prof. Khalid Aliyu, Secretary General of JNI called on all stakeholders to prioritise more diplomatic and political conciliation and collective efforts to resolve the crisis.
“The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) representing the collective voice of the Muslim Ummah, expresses its deep concern and censure of power from a democratically elected President Bozoum, through military coup in Niger Republic”, the statement reads.
“We firmly note the relevance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law to fostering stability, development and steady progress within nations, which are without doubt cornerstones for good governance, because they (democratic principles and rule of law) prevent arbitrary use of force and power, ensures consistency with international human rights, norms and standards, etc.
“The JNI therefore commends the efforts so far undertaken by the Nigerian government, particularly the initiation of a dialogue process, aimed at resolving the crisis in Niger Republic.
“While this attempt may not have yielded the desired results, it demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful resolutions.
“We acknowledge that dialogue is an invaluable tool in preventing further bloodshed and instability, within the Sahel Region, already beclouded with many political and security uncertainties.
“Nevertheless, we wish to raise a word of caution against the pursuit of military action as a means to restore democracy.”The statement noted that “the interlaced landscape of the northern states of Nigeria and the Republic of Niger, it necessitates a more circumspect and thoughtful action and/or approach.”
Aliyu said, “With several Nigerian states sharing borders with Niger Republic, military intervention could have unintended consequences that may impact the peace and stability of both nations.”
The Islamic body, therefore, called on all stakeholders to prioritise more diplomatic and political conciliation and collective efforts to the crisis.”
The JNI said it believes strongly that dialogue, cooperation and negotiation are the most effective means to establish lasting peace and stability in the region.
The statement said further that “It is equally essential that the international community, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), continues to engage in peaceful diplomatic discussions aimed at finding a resolution please.
“In these challenging times, we urge all faithful believers to turn to Allah in prayer, seeking His merciful intervention to guide leaders toward wise decisions and a peaceful resolution.
“Let us pray together for the restoration of peace and order, the protection of human rights, and the well-being of the people of Nigeria and Niger Republic.
“Lastly, the JNI reiterates its commitment to promoting unity, understanding, and cooperation among all Muslims and communities.
“We stand united against any form of injustice, oppression, and violence, advocating for a peaceful and harmonious world.”
