Former Presidential aide, Reno Omokri, expressed his opinion on President Bola Tinubu’s public announcement of military intervention in Niger Republic, stating that it was a mistake.
He emphasized the need to avert war and suggested alternative approaches to address the situation.
Coup in Niger Republic and ECOWAS Sanctions:
Omokri referred to the events of July 25, 2023, when General Abdourahamane Tchiani-led Presidential Guard detained President Bazoum and assumed power in Niger.
In response to the coup, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) imposed sanctions on Niger Republic and threatened military intervention.
Reno’s Critique on Public Announcement:
Taking to Twitter, Reno Omokri expressed his disagreement with President Tinubu’s decision to publicly request military intervention in Niger Republic.
He believed that such a matter should have been kept confidential between the executive and the legislature, unless it was intentionally meant to intimidate the junta in Niger.
Pursuing Non-War Strategies:
Omokri stressed the importance of avoiding war at all costs and proposed economic strangulation as a means to pressure the Nigerien putschists into restoring the democratically elected President.
He also suggested offering amnesty to the military general who seized power, provided he returns power to Bazoum and returns any ill-gotten gains.
War as a Last Resort:
While advocating for peace, Omokri acknowledged the possibility of war becoming a last resort.
In such a scenario, he called for a UN mandate and suggested that the international community should bear the cost of the war.
Unity and Support for Nigeria’s Decision:
Omokri appealed for unity among Nigerians, including the Arewa Consultative Forum and opposition parties, to support the government’s decision if war becomes unavoidable.
He expressed hope that it never reaches that point and concluded with a prayer for peaceful resolution.
Conclusion:
Reno Omokri’s views highlight the complexities surrounding President Tinubu’s public announcement of military intervention in Niger Republic.
He emphasized the need for caution, diplomacy, and unity among Nigerians in addressing the crisis to avoid the tragic consequences of war.