In a bid to address the escalating political turmoil in neighboring Niger, the 14th Emir of Kano and Khalifa of the Tijaniyya order in Nigeria, Muhammad Sanusi, has briefed President Bola Tinubu about his meeting with the Niger junta on Wednesday.
This crucial development comes as part of his mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis that has gripped the West African nation for the past two weeks.
The involvement of Emir Sanusi in these mediation efforts adds a fresh perspective to the international community’s attempts to restore stability in Niger.
It comes following previous unsuccessful endeavors by representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union, and a prominent U.S. diplomat.
Sanusi highlighted that the complexities of the Niger crisis cannot be effectively resolved through governmental actions alone. He underscored the importance of a collaborative approach that actively involves both Nigerian and Nigerien citizens. By including the people most affected by the crisis, Sanusi believes that a more comprehensive and sustainable solution can be forged.
He said, “I came to brief him on the details of my discussions with leaders of Niger. We’ll continue to do our best to bring the two parties together to improve understanding.
“This is the time for public diplomacy, it’s not a matter that we leave to governments. All Nigerians, all Nigeriens need to be involved to find a solution that works for Africa, a solution that works for Niger, that works for Nigeria, and a solution that works for humanity.”
He clarified that he made the peace move of his own volition using his personal contacts, adding that he would continue to do his best as a leader.
“No, I was not sent by the government. Government officials were aware I was going, but it was my personal initiative, using my personal contacts to get there and I will continue to do my best. It is my duty as a leader to do that,” Sanusi said.
Meanwhile, ECOWAS leaders are set to meet on Thursday on the crisis in Niger, whose military rulers have defied its ultimatum to cede power or face possible military action.
“ECOWAS heads of state (will) hold another extraordinary summit on the political situation in the Republic of Niger,” the 15-member bloc said in its first official reaction after Niger ignored Sunday’s deadline to reinstate democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
The summit is to be held in Abuja, Nigeria whose President is the current ECOWAS chairman.
As political uncertainty and tension continue to rise in Niger, Emir Sanusi’s engagement in direct discussions with the coup leaders offers a unique insight into potential avenues for resolution.
The briefing of President Tinubu regarding these talks signifies a pivotal step forward in the diplomatic efforts to bring stability and restore normalcy to the neighboring nation.
The developments in these mediation efforts will undoubtedly be closely monitored by stakeholders within and beyond Niger as they eagerly await signs of progress toward resolving the crisis.
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