The former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, is one man that has a special relationship with the people of Niger Republic.
He had at different times, during his period in office, hosted the leaders of the nation that borders Nigeria in the north.
A few days ago, military officials in Niger toppled the government and took power.
The news of the Niger Republic coup got to Buhari and he expressed concerns. He called it an ‘unwanted’ coup.
In a tweet on Friday, the former Nigerian president described the recent wave of events as a shocking news.
“As to be expected, I, like millions of other Nigerians, am shocked by the latest turn of events in Niger Republic,” he said.
“Concerns have been raised about the fate of democracy as a system of government in the country and in the wider sub-region, and equally so, about the safety of President Mohammed Bazoum and his family.
“I and my family are as much concerned about these as is everyone else.”
As to be expected, I, like millions of other Nigerians, am shocked by the latest turn of events in Niger Republic.
Concerns have been raised about the fate of democracy as a system of government in the country and in the wider sub-region, and equally so, about the safety of…
— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) July 28, 2023
Wester African Leaders’ Concern
Meanwhile, leaders of nations in West Africa have expressed displeasure in the situation. They want a restoration of power to a democratically elected government.
Buhari also threw its weight on this demand.
In fact, he expressed joy over West African leaders’ response to the matter.
“It is heartening to note that the ECOWAS, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is already dealing effectively with the matter, and our hope and prayers are that the unwanted situation will be completely reversed, and the safety and wellbeing of President Bazoum and his family ensured,” Buhari added.
It’s been three days since President Mohamed Bazoum was detained.
His detention has drawn the attention of Niger’s colonial master, France, with the European nation demanding the restoration of the government.
France says it “does not recognise” the putschists, and calling Bazoum the “sole president”.
Most importantly, concerns are rising.
For instance, the Kenyan President, William Ruto, describes the military takeover as “a serious setback” for Africa.
“The aspirations of the people of Niger for constitutional democracy were subverted by an unconstitutional change of government,” he said in a video message.
Sunday has been set aside by West African leaders to discuss the Niger Republic coup.
Also Read: Presidential Guard Becomes New Niger Ruler
The meeting will hold in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.
ECOWAS says it would, together with international community, do everything to defend democracy in the region.
Also, it promises to ensure that democratic governance continues to take firm root in the region.
The regional bloc’s statement was delivered by President Bola Tinubu. He is also the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.
Recently, the Nigerian leader, who heads ECOWAS, submitted a list of his ministerial nominees.
There were few women and there are a few commendations for his choice.
