President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for the indefinite suspension of the sanctions against Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, from the Economic Community of West African States, News About Nigeria reports.
He made this call while shaking at the Extraordinary Summit of ECOWAS in Abuja on Saturday, stating that the sanctions have become a harsh stumbling block.
President Tinubu, who is the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the organisation, noted that the sanction was intended to persuade the affected countries that there existed a better path, a path that would lead to genuine improvement of their people’s welfare through democratic good governance.
“Everything we did was in hopes of persuading our brothers that there existed a better path, a path that would lead to genuine improvement of their people’s welfare through democratic good governance. This was a path each of our nations had solemnly agreed with one another under formal regional treaties and protocols.
“However, the sanctions that we contemplated might help lead our brothers to the negotiating table have become a harsh stumbling block. In my mind and heart, that which is hurtful yet ineffective serves no good purpose and should be abandoned,” he stated.
He further noted that neither hatred nor hidden motive influenced the steps taken and that there was never any intention to douse or undermine the legitimate political aspirations of any member state or to advance the interests of any outside party.
President Tinubu also stressed that the committee will take advantage of the holy month to extend a hand of peace.
“We must take note of the approach of the holy month of Ramadan and of Lent. Whether you pray in the mosque or in the church, this represents a time for compassion, hope, and harmony. It is a time that we must not only seek God but also a closer relationship with brother and neighbour.
“In the Spirit of the holy month and of the Lenten period, and with hearts stirred by goodwill towards all our people, let us extend a hand as brothers and friends to those in Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea,” he added.
