An Islamic organisation called Jami’iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya has encouraged the Niger military junta to create a thorough transition plan for the restoration of democratic administration in the nation, News About Nigeria reports.
Malam Muhammad Yahaya, the organization’s national secretary, made the announcement during a news conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
“We appeal to the military rulers in Niger to abide by the Islamic principles and immediately initiate a dialogue with all the political stakeholders, including the representatives of the deposed government, opposition leaders and the Civil Society Organisations. This inclusive dialogue should aim to develop a comprehensive transition plan that leads to the restoration of democratic governance in Niger,” he said.
The group call comes just as the Niger junta government agrees to enter into negotiations with the President Bola Tinubu-led Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as the bloc seeks to return the country to democratic rule.
Prior to its agreement to negotiate with the bloc, the Niger junta had initially turned down diplomatic efforts from both the African Union and ECOWAS.
As events unfolded, the Niger junta went ahead to appoint 21 ministers to run the affairs of the state. However, as Niger remained resolute against negotiations, ECOWAS ordered its troops on standby for a possible invasion of Niger as it sought to return Niger to democratic rule.
However many prominent Nigerians urged ECOWAS to intensify diplomatic measures instead of using force against the Niger junta, warning that Nigeria will suffer the brunt if the bloc goes ahead to use military might against the Niger.
