Niger Coup: Nigeria's Izala group admonish ECOWAS on amicable resolution

The leader of Izala sect (JIBWIS) in Nigeria, Sheikh Bala Lau has counselled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to ensure a peaceful resolution of the current diplomatic tensions in Republic of Niger.

The Islamic scholar, who made this known in Abuja on Thursday, explained that achieving peace in Niger will impact positively on all its African neighbours.

The JIBWIS leader disclosed that the sect has welcomed the decision of President Bola Tinubu – who doubles as ECOWAS Chairman, of sending a powerful delegation of former President Abdussalami Abubakar and Sultan Saad Abubakar, among others, to work for a peaceful resolution.

Sheikh Lau went on to say that the idea of a military action against the coupists of Republic of Niger would not augur well for both the country and her neighbours, “especially immediate neighbours like Nigeria, which has built strong diplomatic, cultural and religious bond with Niamey for decades”.

ECOWAS had last weekend issued a seven-day ultimatum to military leaders who overthrew the democratically-elected government in Niger to return power to elected officials or risk the full wrath of the regional body, including the use of military force.

The threat was followed by a meeting of defence chiefs of ECOWAS in Abuja in preparation for the enforcement of no flight zone imposed on Niger and other military action.