Full text of an open letter to ECOWAS by eight leading northern civil society groups (CSOs), cautioning against the proposed economic and military actions in the efforts to resolve the political crisis in Niger Republic.
5th August 2023
HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
And Chairman of ECOWAS,
Presidential Villa Asokoro Abuja.
Your Excellency,
THE DANGERS AND IMPLICATIONS OF MILITARY INTERVENTION AND IMPOSITION OF ECONOMIC SANCTIONS ON NIGER REPUBLIC BY THE ECOWAS
We, the undersigned members of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) based in Northern Nigeria, have critically analyzed the proposed military intervention and/or economic sanctions on Niger Republic by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in response to the military coup and subsequent refusal by the military junta to return power to the deposed President.
We acknowledge that the political situation in Niger Republic poses a significant threat to growth of democracy in West Africa.
However, we firmly believe that the proposed military intervention or economic sanctions as a response to the military coup is not only legally deficient but will also practically exacerbate the crisis and inflict further suffering on the innocent people in Niger Republic and the wider region.
This would further undermine the future of democracy and peaceful co-existence in Niger Republic and the West African sub region.
We recognize that ECOWAS has proposed mechanisms and legal frameworks that have been put in place to respond to political crises, including military coups, within its member states. Theseareguidedbyitsfoundingtreatiesandprotocols,suchastheECOWASProtocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the ECOWAS Protocol on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security.
According to these protocols, ECOWAS can take various actions to address unconstitutional changes of government, such as military coups.
These actions may include diplomatic measures, economic sanctions, and, in extreme cases, military intervention, which is authorized under the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
However, a decision to intervene militarily or impose economic sanctions on a member state should not be taken lightly.
Rather, it requires a thorough assessment of the situation and consideration of the potential consequences.
Of crucial importance here is to ensure that any form of intervention is in line with the principles of international law, including respect for sovereignty and human rights.
It is in the light of the above and due consideration of the political situation in Niger Republic, that we are putting forward our carefully considered position on the matter for your urgent attention and consideration.
We believe that in the context of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the ECOWAS Protocol on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, it is perhaps only in the case of a member State that has descended into condition of political anarchy that warrants unsolicited military intervention.
In the current circumstances military intervention in Niger Republic, no matter how well- intentioned, carries the inherent risk of escalating violence in the affected country.
A military response to the political crisis in the country could result in armed confrontations, indiscriminate attacks, and potential war crimes.
The already vulnerable civilian population would be at greater risk of becoming victims of violence, leading to a further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the region.
Furthermore, Niger Republic’s political crisis has the potential to spill over into neighboring countries, impacting regional security and stability.
Any military intervention or economic sanctions imposed by ECOWAS may lead to increased cross-border conflicts and intensify existing security challenges in the West African region.
A peaceful resolution to the crisis is vital to ensure regional cooperation and collective efforts towards lasting stability. Military intervention, especially in times of political instability, can lead to the violation of human rights and the erosion of democratic principles.
The presence of armed forces could increase the likelihood of extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary detentions, and the suppression of freedom of expression and assembly. It is essential to uphold human rights standards while seeking to resolve the crisis.
Economic sanctions imposed on Niger Republic could disproportionately affect ordinary citizens, plunging them further into poverty and aggravating existing economic hardships.
Restrictions on trade and financial transactions may lead to inflation, food insecurity, and unemployment, directly impacting the most vulnerable populations within the country.
Any economic measures should be carefully designed to avoid harming the well-being of innocent civilians.
History has shown that military interventions and sanctions rarely achieve their intended goals of restoring democracy and stability.
Instead, they can lead to prolonged political crises, entrench military rule, and hinder prospects for peaceful negotiations.
The focus should be on diplomatic solutions that address the root causes of political instability and pave the way for inclusive and sustainable governance.
The unfortunate hype on the proposed military intervention and/or economic sanctions must not undermine the opportunities for inclusive dialogue and mediation efforts.
All relevant stakeholders in Niger Republic, including the military junta, political leaders, and representatives from civil society, should be engaged in meaningful discussions to find a peaceful resolution that respects democratic rights and aspirations.
To address the crisis in Niger Republic effectively, a comprehensive approach to conflict prevention and peace building is necessary.
Diplomatic solutions should be prioritized, focusing on addressing underlying grievances, strengthening institutions, and promoting respect for human rights. Conflict prevention initiatives should aim to foster long-term stability and democracy in Niger Republic.
ECOWAS, as a regional bloc, plays a crucial role in promoting stability and peace in West Africa.
As the current Chairman of ECOWAS, we humbly urge you to use your position to intensify mediation efforts and diplomatic engagement with all relevant parties in Niger Republic.
Military intervention and economic sanctions pose severe dangers to the country, its citizens, and the region at large.
Your Excellency Sir, in conclusion we further urge you to encourage those in the international community clamoring for war to support these diplomatic initiatives and refrain from actions that may worsen the situation.
The focus should be on promoting regional stability, respecting the sovereignty of Niger Republic, and fostering a peaceful resolution that empowers the people of Niger Republic to determine their own political future.
We pray to God Almighty to give you the wisdom to address the complex challenges facing our country and our region and to give you the courage to pursue peace, justice, and unity among our peoples and nations.
Yours faithfully,
Kabiru S. Chafe
(Arewa Research and Development Project)
Babayola M. Toungo
(Arewa Research & Development Project)
Abubakar Siddique Mohammed
(Centre for Democratic Development, Research and Training)
Massoud Omar
(Centre for Democratic Development, Research and Training)
Hajiya Rabi Saulawa
(Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa)
Mrs. Doshiya Barwa Aboy
(Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa)
Hashim Tom Maiyashi
(Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations)
Ms. Latifa Abdulsalam
(Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations)
