…facilitates diplomatic talks between Niger Junta and ECOWAS.
Muhammadu Sanusi, the 14th Emir of Kano, recently held discussions with military leaders in Niger Republic.
Sanusi’s visit came after a scheduled meeting between the junta and representatives of the African Union, the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), and a high-ranking American diplomat was called off.
Despite efforts by an ECOWAS delegation, they couldn’t establish a dialogue with the military rulers, who declined the meeting. Sanusi, whose Tijjaniya sect holds significant influence in Niger Republic, took the initiative to engage with the junta, accompanied by the Sultan of Damagaran, the third-largest city in the Republic of Niger.
Sources indicate that Sanusi undertook the trip to promote negotiation with the junta, motivated by his concerns about the impact of the impasse on Nigeria-Niger relations and citizens of both countries.
He went independently but with the awareness of President Bola Tinubu.
Following his visit, Sanusi returned to Abuja and visited President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
Sanusi highlighted that his discussions with Niger’s military leaders were fruitful and aimed at fostering understanding between the parties involved.
Sanusi clarified that his initiative was not orchestrated by the government, although government officials were aware of his plans.
He stressed the importance of public diplomacy in finding a solution that benefits Africa, Niger, Nigeria, and humanity as a whole.
ECOWAS leaders are set to reconvene in Abuja to address the situation in Niger.
President Bola Tinubu, the chairman of ECOWAS, had scheduled this meeting after the expiry of the seven-day ultimatum issued by the regional bloc for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum.
ECOWAS’ previous actions, including sanctions on Niger and the consideration of a potential military intervention, garnered backlash, particularly in Nigeria.