Niger Coup: Group calls for end to foreign military presence in Africa within 24 months

Foundation for Peace Professionals also known as PeacePro has condemned the latest coup in Niger Republic, arguing that coup has never been a solution to insecurity in the continent, neither is it capable of bringing economic prosperity.

PeacePro also called on the leadership of African Union and ECOWAS to end the presence of foreign military bases across the region.

PeacePro, in a statement by the Executive Director, Mr Abdulrazaq Hamzat, said that military coup in the subregion often enjoys initial public support because of the presence of foreign military forces that is blamed for the sustained and prolonged insecurity, especially in the Francophone region.

According to Hamzat, the recent coup in Niger Republic and the initial public excitement it generated in the country might be a temporary feeling, but it is also an indication that the people of the country do not have sufficient evidence that their democratically elected government is acting as an independent authority, devoid of foreign pressure and influence.

Investigation amongst the people of Niger Republic indicates that they want closer ties with Mali and Burkina Faso, all Francophone countries united in a mission to send foreign military forces out of their countries.

Hamzat maintained that while military coup is condemnable, the constituted civil authorities in the continent must demonstrate capacity to protect the human and territorial integrity of the continent.

The fundamental Issues and grievances leading to the coup should also be addressed, not just in Niger Republic, but also in Mali, Burkina Faso and others.

PeacePro therefore urges the African Union and ECOWAS to make it a mission to end presence of foreign military forces in the continent within the next 24 months. (The PUNCH)

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