By Daniel Edu
Former Nigerian Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has voiced the opinion that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) should launch an intervention in Niger Republic without the involvement of Nigerian military forces.
In a statement titled “ECOWAS VERSUS NIGER: WHO IS FOOLING WHO?” issued on Saturday, Fani-Kayode expressed concern about Nigeria being used as a tool by Western governments to invade other West African nations.
He emphasized that the proposed military intervention by ECOWAS in Niger lacks the backing of the Nigerian people and would be a significant misstep for the region if executed.
Fani-Kayode advocated for the resolution of the crisis in Niger Republic through diplomatic means rather than force. He suggested that ECOWAS leaders should guide the region toward a peaceful resolution.
In his statement, Fani-Kayode stated, “We have invested significant effort, taken substantial risks, and endured many challenges to establish this government. We not only have a vested interest in its success but also an obligation to ensure its stability and progress.”
He further stated, “While we are fully devoted to providing unwavering support and assistance to help the President navigate through difficulties and stabilize the nation, our duty also entails presenting the unadulterated truth.”
Fani-Kayode underscored that the planned intervention in Niger is met with disapproval within Nigeria, making it essential to avoid the deployment of Nigerian troops in the operation. He suggested that if ECOWAS decides to intervene, other nations should handle the operation without involving Nigerian forces.
He concluded, “Unless our country is directly attacked or our sovereignty compromised, we should abstain from military involvement. For now, diplomatic means should be the sole approach to resolving this issue. We should not permit ourselves to be dragged into an unnecessary and bloody regional conflict, the consequences of which are uncertain.”
