Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has stated that Nigeria will persist in its efforts to engage with the government of Niger Republic to secure the release of President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been under custody since a junta took control earlier this year.
Minister Tuggar, speaking to newsmen on the sidelines of the United Nations Climate Conference in Dubai, emphasized that Nigeria is under no external pressure to act against Niger Republic.
Addressing the perception that Nigeria might be perceived as obstructive in the process, the minister clarified the country’s stance, stating that the country is not difficult but the decision is from ECOWAS.
“And we have made it clear, we spelled it out. We are asking them to release President Bazoum so that he will be allowed to leave Niger. He will no longer be in custody. He will go to a third country that is mutually agreed upon. And then we start talking about the removal of sanctions,” the minister said.
“So, let no picture be painted that Nigeria is the one being difficult or that ECOWAS – because it was an ECOWAS decision – is being difficult. We continue to talk with them; to engage and our doors will continue to be open to those in charge in Niger as of now. You know, the opportunity is there. We are always ready, willing, and able to listen to them and the ball is in their court.”
Contrary to claims of external influence on Nigeria’s actions, Minister Tuggar highlighted the longstanding brotherhood between Nigeria and Niger. He dispelled notions that Nigeria is being dictated to by external forces, calling such claims “pure propaganda” and “lies.”
“There is no conflict between Nigeria and Niger. The people of Nigeria and Niger, we are brothers. We are not against them, and don’t let anybody fool you that Nigeria is being dictated to by some other country what to do,” the minister added.
“That’s pure propaganda. Those are lies. Everybody knows Nigeria’s track record when it comes to standing for what is right – the fight for freedom in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Mozambique. We are always there. We remain consistent. We see what we’re doing also about Palestine and what is happening in Gaza. This is exactly what we’re also saying about the situation in Niger. “
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