Major General Christopher Musa
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Nigeria, Major General Christopher Musa, has rallied support for an intervention of ECOWAS in the ongoing political crisis in Niger, asserting that the greatest strength of ECOWAS lies in its unity.
According to him, the coup d’etat in Niger has been a source of great concern not just for the ECOWAS, but for all who believe in the ideals of democracy, stability, and the rule of law.
Addressing the Extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff on the political situation in Niger, Major General Musa said the Committee of CDSs of ECOWAS has a responsibility to ensure that ECOWAS’ responses to this crisis are “not driven by fear, but by the principles of justice, respect for human rights, and the unwavering commitment to the rule of law.”
“We must strive to uphold the integrity of our institutions, protect the sovereignty of our states, and safeguard the democratic rights of our people. In this the people of Niger are also an integral part.
“In the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that has always characterized our engagements, I am confident that we will find a way forward. We must remember that our greatest strength lies in our unity,” he stressed.
He explained that it is this unity that has allowed ECOWAS to face past challenges, intimating, “it is this unity that will see us through the current crisis.”
According to him, the Niger crisis is a poignant reminder of the challenges we face as a region, and the urgent need to stand together in unity and solidarity.
“As we continue our deliberations today, I would like to remind us all that the purpose of our gathering is not simply to react to events, but to proactively chart a course that preserves peace, promotes stability and upholds democratic principles across our region.
“We must remember that our collective actions today will shape the legacy we leave for future generations. The path that lies before us is not an easy one, but it is a path that we must tread, nonetheless, with courage and determination,” he stated.
He continued, “As we grapple with the complexities of the situation in the Republic of Niger, let us not forget that at the heart of our discussions are the lives of millions of people who yearn for peace, stability, and progress. We must not allow the people of Niger to suffer needlessly.”
“As we embark on this important mission, let us remember the words of the ECOWAS Vision 2050, which calls for a region of peace, security, and solidarity. Let these words not just be an aspiration, but a guiding principle on our deliberations and decisions,” he entreated.
By Ernest Kofi Adu