By Paul Mamattah
The Executive Director of the Nigeria Business Forum Ghana, Ambassador Oloye Fatuyi Oyeyemi, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to rethink and reconsider its decision to forcefully reinstall the deposed Nigerien leader.
According to Amb. Oyeyemi, such an action would only serve to further divide the country and make it difficult for neighboring countries to accept refugees at their borders.
This plea comes amidst questions on why the ECOWAS bloc is suddenly becoming so responsive and resolute in protecting political leaders, while the citizens of the region continue to suffer from untold hardships and unnecessary harassment at each other’s borders without any meaningful political solutions.
Speaking in an interview with The Herald Newspaper via telephone interview, Amb. Oyeyemi, expressed his lack of support for any military intervention in governance, stating that it is important to let the Nigeriens deal with their internal affairs and take control of their own destiny.
More Read
He also highlighted the lack of progress in the eco-currency project and the African Free Trade agreement, both of which were initiated to positively impact the continent.
Amba. Oyeyemi, criticized the lack of interest shown by African leaders in promoting these projects, while they were quick to secure foreign loans and embark on unproductive foreign trips.
The Executive Director, further highlighted the challenges faced by ECOWAS citizens in freely moving across each other’s countries, due to harassment and extortion by government officials at various borders.
He stressed the need for respect of ECOWAS treaties and international conventions, urging the ECOWAS leadership to focus on addressing these real problems within their borders.
Furthermore, Amb. Oyeyemi, questioned the reasons behind the military’s takeover of power in the sub-Saharan bloc and why citizens of Niger openly declare their support for such actions.
He raised concerns over the jubilation and attacks on foreign institutions within the country, suggesting that the dissatisfaction among citizens with their political elites could be a contributing factor.
Amb. Oyeyemi concluded by urging the military to respect and protect the rights of the citizens in Niger, emphasizing the need for peace and good governance.
He criticized politicians for neglecting the welfare of the people while focusing on their own personal interests, calling for a change in this pattern of behavior.
As ECOWAS citizens continue to face numerous challenges, it is hoped that the leadership will take heed of these concerns and prioritize the well-being of the people within the region.
