Atiku speaks on Niger coup: says “military engagement not an option”

The flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the February 25 presidential election, Atiku Abubakar has called for a diplomatic engagement to resolve the military intervention in the government of the Republic of Niger.

President Mohamed Bazoum-led government was toppled by a group of military officers last week, a development that has been condemned across the world.

In a statement he personally signed, and shared on his Facebook page, on Thursday evening, August 3rd, Atiku commended the role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), urging the sub-regional body not to take military action against the coupists in order not to worsen the situation.

Part of the statement reads thus: “As the ECOWAS continues to work towards reinstating democracy in the Republic of Niger, it must be reinforced that the regional body should not travel the road of military hostilities that may exacerbate the status quo.

“The crisis in the Republic of Niger requires diplomatic engagements, and that must mean that the channels for dialogue should be well sustained.”