By: Mayen Etim

KADUNA, North-West Nigeria – Following the coup in Niger Republic the group, Network of Peace Journalists, (NPJ) in Kaduna State has urged President Bola Tinubu, the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS) to prioritize peaceful dialogue over military intervention in Niger.

This is as NPJ cautioned against any form of military action and called for the use of diplomacy to address the crisis.

A statement issued by the Team Lead of NPJ, Ibrahima Yakubu, made available to Journalists in Kaduna on Sunday, August 6, 2023, the group emphasized the importance of sustaining dialogue and peaceful negotiations with Niger Republic to maintain regional unity.

The group, alongside various media organizations across the country, is advocating for peaceful talks to resolve the situation.

“This sentiment is shared by influential figures in Nigeria, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a legal luminary, Femi Falana, who emphasized that diplomacy and sanctions should be the preferred approach to restoring democratic rule,” Yakubu said.

ECOWAS, supported by Western allies and the United Nations, issued a 7-day ultimatum to the military junta to reinstate the democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum. This ultimatum will expire tomorrow.

Prominent voices also stress the significance of media responsibility in covering the Niger Republic situation, urging restraint and peaceful solutions.

The utilization of diplomacy is seen as vital for effective communication, negotiation, image management, and policy implementation to address future challenges in the Sahel region.

The appeal extends to African countries, urging the promotion and preservation of democratic governance for progress and stability across the continent.