The Northern Senators Forum has commended the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for lifting the sanctions it imposed on Niger Republic following the military takeover of power in the neighbouring country on July 26, 2023.
The commendation is contained in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday by the Spokesperson of the Forum, Senator Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, the Senator representing Kano South Senatorial District.
Sumaila said the Forum “expresses its heartfelt appreciation and commendation to the exceptional leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their decisive action in lifting sanctions imposed on Niger Republic as a result of the military takeover on 26th July, 2023.
“We are pleased to see that ECOWAS has responded to the progressive requests made by us individually and collectively on the subject matter, and we commend their prudent and compassionate approach in addressing these critical issues,”he said.
The Spokesperson said the Forum believes that the principled and empathetic decision made by ECOWAS to lift the sanctions on Niger Republic is a testament to the organization’s commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation, and respect for human rights.
“We understand that this action will go a long way in alleviating the suffering of the people of Niger Republic, as well as ensuring the restoration of stability and economic prosperity in our region.
“We are particularly grateful that ECOWAS leaders have considered our pleas to restore electricity, open borders, and lift the sanctions on Niger Republic,” he said.
Sumaila also quoted the Forum as saying that the decision of the sub-regional group would not only have crucial humanitarian implications, but would also foster regional integration, trade and cooperation.
“We firmly believe that this step taken by ECOWAS will positively impact the lives of the people of Niger Republic and Nigeria and facilitate the restoration of trust and harmony among all member states.
“As representatives of the people and advocates for justice and democracy, we commend ECOWAS for their responsiveness and understanding of the immense challenges faced by our fellow West African nation.
“The Northern Senators Forum stands in solidarity with ECOWAS in restoring democracy and the rule of law in Niger Republic and other west African countries, and we are committed to working to promote stability, peace, and socio-economic development throughout the region,” it said.
The Forum urged the Government of Niger Republic and its people to seize this opportunity to hasten the process of returning to democratic governance to build a stronger and more prosperous nation, “harnessing their resilient spirit and unwavering determination.”
“We urge all regional stakeholders to continue engaging in dialogue and pursuing peaceful solutions to address any remaining concern, fostering a harmonious environment for progress and development,”the group said.
The Forum then expressed its deep appreciation to ECOWAS leaders, especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, for “their proactive and benevolent intervention in lifting the sanctions imposed on Niger Republic.”
“We are confident that this decision will leave an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of all West African nations and serve as a shining example for resolving differences through dialogue and diplomacy,” the Forum added.
