ECOWAS Chairman President Bola Tinubu has encouraged a delegation of Islamic scholars engaged in discussions for the return of constitutional democracy in Niger Republic to accelerate their talks with the military junta.
The President received a briefing in Abuja, where he stressed the need for a peaceful resolution and discussed the readiness of countries for possible intervention. He emphasized ECOWAS’ commitment to diplomatic engagement for a peaceful solution to the crisis.
Tinubu also addressed the distribution of palliatives, urging transparency from state governments. He underscored the importance of accountability and democracy in states’ governance.
“Even as at this morning, I have been inundated with phone calls on the readiness of countries with their military force and contributions. However, I told them to wait. I am meeting with the Ulamas and I will get back to you,” he stated.
He pledged that ECOWAS will remain steadfast in its commitment to diplomatically engage with all stakeholders and seek a peaceful resolution to the impasse in Niger Republic.
On the request by the Islamic scholars for the Federal Government to monitor the distribution of palliatives to States, the President promised that more palliatives are coming for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises nationwide.
He also appealed to State governments to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution and management of these palliatives.
“The people reside in the States. Even if I set up a panel, I will have to go through the governors and the local governments. We will continue to talk to the governors. Nigerians must hold them accountable,” he continued.
“It’s unheard of that in a constitutional democracy, a president will sit here and give orders to States. I can only appeal to them to implement. The people reside in the states, and if the Governor is not doing well, the people must vote them out,” he concluded.
