President Tinubu, who himself experienced the harshness of a military regime during his younger years, has taken a strong stance to protect the hard-won democracy of West Africa. He lived abroad for a period due to the oppressive regime.
The Niger coup, which transpired on Wednesday, July 26, saw several top military officers depose President Mohamed Bazoum, resulting in General Abdourahmane “Omar” Tchiani taking over the leadership.
Tensions have escalated as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), under the leadership of President Tinubu, has imposed sanctions on the coup leaders. These measures include Nigeria cutting off electricity supply to Niger Republic as part of the sanctions.
The concerns over the coup's implications for Nigeria are multifaceted, which might explain President Tinubu's strong resolve to address the situation:
1. Democratic Backsliding:
The coup in Niger raises concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions. The coup trend across Africa, with Niger being the latest in the Sahel region, has alarmed observers. This pattern is reminiscent of historical coup waves that have impacted the continent.
Japheth Joshua Omojuwa, a notable Nigerian public affairs commentator, said the continent ignored the red flags —which is proving costly.
He stated: "There is a coup d'etat domino currently at play in Africa. This was how it started in the 60s before it became the norm.
"Let every state take heed, no one is safe from the manipulations of forces behind these coups. They already have civilian supporters everywhere."
Since Mali's armed takeover in August 2020, several neighbouring countries have seen a similar pattern emerge: Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, and Sudan. Last year (2022), failed coup attempts were recorded in Guinea Bissau, The Gambia, and Sao Tome and Principe.
2. Regional Stability:
The series of coups in neighbouring countries like Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, and Sudan are a cause for concern. The fear is that these power transitions might lead to instability and alignment with anti-western interests, which could strain relations with Western allies.
Reno Omokri, an author and social media influencer, is very impressed by the Nigerian government's steps thus far. He wrote: "For the first time, ECOWAS is asserting itself to defend democracy. And Nigeria is leading that defence. Shutting down power to Niger, establishing and enforcing a No-Fly-Zone. Cutting aid and shutting land borders. Very commendable."
The coup opens a new chapter in the struggle for interest in the region as the new leaders in Niger could align with anti-western interests as has been the case in Burkina Faso and Mali.
This could compel Western allies and other development partners to withdraw their support from Niger, a situation likely to complicate the peace, welfare, and stability of citizens. Hence, developmental assistance are hindered.
3. Disruption of Development Assistance:
The uncertainty brought about by the coup could lead Western allies and development partners to reconsider their support for Niger. This potential withdrawal of assistance could hinder developmental efforts and negatively impact the well-being and stability of the citizens.
President Tinubu's commitment to strengthening democracy and tackling security concerns in West Africa was expressed in a meeting with President Bazoum and the presidents of Benin and Guinea Bissau.
