Senate Divided as Tempers Flare Over Deployment of Troops to Niger Republic

Tempers flared among senators on Saturday during heated discussions over President Bola Tinubu’s request to deploy troops to Niger Republic and enforce the ECOWAS resolution for the restoration of President Mohamed Bazoum. Senators from the North strongly opposed the move, citing concerns about potential disruptions to their region’s stability.

The closed-door meeting witnessed a lively exchange, with lawmakers from seven northern states expressing vehement rejection of the troop deployment. Some senators expressed displeasure with the coup and criticized the military rulers for their disrespectful behavior towards Nigeria and other West African countries.

Amid the impasse, a suggestion emerged for Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Senate leadership to meet with Tinubu and appeal for a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

After extensive deliberations, the Senate advised Tinubu to explore diplomatic and political means to address the coup in Niger Republic, rather than resorting to military action.

In a resolution read by Akpabio, the Senate clarified that President Tinubu did not seek approval for going to war but rather sought support for implementing ECOWAS resolutions.

Additionally, ECOWAS defense chiefs emphasized dialogue, economic sanctions, and security measures as the appropriate steps to address the political stalemate in Niger Republic during their separate meetings.

However, the Jama’atu Nasril Islam and some retired military generals cautioned against military intervention, stressing the importance of peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomatic efforts.

As the situation continues to unfold, all parties remain committed to finding a peaceful solution to the crisis, recognizing the significance of stability in the region.