The political situation in Niger and General Abdourahamane Tchiani’s statements on war and defending the country, as well as his perspective on the role of ECOWAS and the rebels’ intentions.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, leader of the mutineers who took over Niger’s power, stated on Saturday that his country does not desire war but will be prepared to defend itself if necessary.
In a statement from Media, Tchiani emphasized that neither the Nigerien army nor its people intend to go to war, but they will resist any expression of it. Tchiani claimed that the other member nations of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) do not recognize that Niger has now become the key to containing the region from destabilization amidst increasing terrorist activity.
Furthermore, he observed that the sanctions imposed on his country were aimed at pressuring the rebels and not at addressing the current situation effectively. Tchiani also announced that the rebels do not aspire to take control of the country and instead seek to reach a solution that caters to the needs of the Nigerien people.
– By Osaiyekemwen Confidence
