Niger Coup: Nigeria Urged To Lead ECOWAS Effort In Restoring Democracy

Former Presidential adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria, Mr Reno Omokri, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Nigeria, to take immediate action in restoring the democratically elected President of Niger Republic, Mohamed Bazoum, to power. 

In an article penned by Omokri and shared on his social media handle, he suggests implementing a comprehensive embargo on Niger Republic, allowing only emergency medical supplies to enter or exit the country. This embargo would include restrictions on food, beverages, weapons, cars, and other goods. 

Omokri also proposes cutting off electric power supply from Nigeria, as Niger heavily relies on its neighbor for electricity.

 Furthermore, he suggests suspending the construction of the Kano-Maradi rail line, which is currently underway.

Omokri emphasizes that military intervention is not the only solution to reverse the coup in Niger Republic. He suggests employing sanctions and diplomacy, similar to the approach taken by President Olusegun Obasanjo in dealing with the attempted overthrow of President Fradique de Menezes of São Tomé and Príncipe in 2003. 

In addition to applying pressure, Omokri recommends offering immunity to the coup plotters and allowing the ring leaders to leave the country, along with a promise of a generous maintenance allowance.

By utilizing a combination of sticks and carrots, Omokri believes ECOWAS can effectively address the situation in Niger Republic and reinstate the democratically elected President.