A former member of the House of Representatives, Robinson Uwak, has called the attention of member states and the Chairman of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), President Bola Tinubu on the adverse consequences of engaging Niger Republic in a war.
Uwak said that invading Niger with soldiers can cause irrecoverable crisis and wanton destruction across borders.
Taking to a statement on Sunday, he advised Tinubu to avoid starting war in the Niger following the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
The lawmaker’s call followed ECOWAS threat to invade Niger if all diplomatic efforts from international partners fail
He called on Tinubu to continue to toe the path of dialogue.
He added that the impact of war can cause irrevocable crisis and trauma on respective citizens.
“Let Mr President suspend any talk of military action and sustain the dialogue option as this would yield long term benefits for regional peace and stability within the ECOWAS sub-region.
“The President should take a deep look at the impact of any war with our neighbouring country, the post-traumatic disorders, the severance of cross-border filial relations, the destruction and the injuries may probably not heal. Let us avoid this war by all means,” Uwak stated.
He lauded former Head of State and the chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar and the Sultan of Sokoto for agreeing to broker peace between respective countries.
Tinubu had sought the approval of the Nigerian Senate to deploy its military to the West African state but the lawmakers turned down his request.
Defying international and ECOWAS pressurs, the junta has vowed to remain in power for three years before permitting a democratic election.