The Federal Government has dismissed claims that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) backed the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic, insisting that Nigeria remains firmly opposed to military takeovers and other unconstitutional changes of government.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the claims circulating on social media as “baseless” and “irresponsible,” saying they were aimed at misleading the public and damaging Nigeria’s image.
Enikanolaiye, in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, said Nigeria had never endorsed the military coup in Niger and would not support any attempt to seize political power through unconstitutional means.
He described Nigeria as a “peace-loving nation, a defender of constitutional order, and a pillar of democracy and stability” in West Africa, the Sahel and Africa.
The minister recalled that the Federal Government had made its position clear in an earlier statement issued on August 30, expressing deep concern over developments in Niger and calling for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order.
“Any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to this objective and to Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy,” he said.
According to Enikanolaiye, Nigeria’s position is particularly significant given the country’s historical, cultural and fraternal ties with Niger, which shares a border with Nigeria.
“Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger, the sub-region and the Sahel,” he said.
The minister acknowledged Nigeria’s membership of ECOWAS but rejected suggestions that its participation in the regional organisation amounted to support for the coup.
“While Nigeria is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup,” Enikanolaiye said.
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives circulating online which, he said, were designed to sow discord and create a false impression of the government’s position on the Niger crisis.
Enikanolaiye further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero-tolerance policy towards unconstitutional changes of government.
He said Nigeria would continue to work with ECOWAS, the African Union and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law and promote peace and stability across West Africa and the wider Sahel region.
