TheCable

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has advised President Bola Tinubu against using military action to restore democracy in the Niger Republic.

In a statement issued on Saturday by Khalid Aliyu, JNI secretary-general, the Islamic body said such a move may have negative impact on peace and stability in Nigeria.

On Friday, Tinubu wrote to the national assembly about the resolutions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following the coup that removed Mohamed Bazoum as Niger president.

JNI, in reaction, asked Tinubu to prioritise more diplomatic and political conciliation 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.

“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.”

JNI said using force to restore democracy in the landlocked nation “could have unintended consequences that may impact the peace and stability of both nations”.

The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) on Friday said deploying troops to the country will hurt seven northern states —Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Yobe and Borno —sharing borders with the country.

The senate, during plenary on Saturday, also advised the president to explore diplomatic options to resolve the Niger crisis.