Former Presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has shared his reaction to the war threat issued by the military in Burkina Faso and Mali in response to efforts to restore Niger’s deposed President, Mohamed Bazoum.
The junta-led governments of Burkina Faso and Mali warned that any military intervention to reinstate Bazoum would be seen as a “declaration of war” against their nations.
However, West African leaders, with support from Western partners, had threatened the use of “force” and imposed financial sanctions on the coup leaders.
Burkina Faso and Mali rejected these moves, refusing to comply with the imposed sanctions.
Reasons for Avoiding Military Intervention:
Omokri argues against Nigeria risking war by sending its military to invade Niger.
He believes that the combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso is significantly lower than that of Lagos State alone.
Nigeria’s GDP is valued at approximately $500 billion, while the three countries’ combined GDPs are much smaller.
Given this economic disparity, Omokri suggests that Nigeria should not jeopardize its GDP for these nations.
A Landlocked Country’s Vulnerability:
Niger is a landlocked country that heavily relies on imports for 25% of its food supply.
Omokri suggests that instead of military intervention, Nigeria should consider a blockade, allowing “General Hunger” to exert pressure on the country.
He believes that the mass starvation resulting from food scarcity could lead to the eventual restoration of democracy in Niger.
While acknowledging the unfortunate impact on ordinary Nigerians, he sees it as a more preferable alternative to sending Nigerian soldiers to risk their lives in the conflict.
Strategic Approach to the Situation:
Omokri emphasizes that attacking the stomach (food scarcity) rather than attacking the borders is a more strategic approach to dealing with the putschists in Niger.
He asserts that the combination of financial pressure and food shortages will likely bring about change in the country’s leadership.
He acknowledges that there may be collateral damage, but he sees it as a necessary sacrifice in the pursuit of restoring democracy in Niger.
Conclusion:
Reno Omokri’s response to the military war threat in Burkina Faso and Mali advocates for a cautious approach by Nigeria.
He urges against sending Nigerian soldiers to invade Niger, emphasizing the significant economic disparity between the nations.
Instead, he proposes applying pressure through financial sanctions and a blockade, leading to food scarcity in Niger and, ultimately, compelling the restoration of democracy.
Omokri acknowledges the potential suffering of ordinary Nigerians due to the situation but considers it a preferable option to direct military intervention.
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