The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has appealed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to reconsider its decision to deploy military forces to Niger with the aim of restoring democratic governance. In a statement released on Thursday and endorsed by its National President, Hon Khalil Mohd Bello, the association expressed concerns regarding the potential consequences of such a military intervention.
The group asserted that there are significant doubts about the positive outcomes that a military operation in Niger would bring. They emphasized their firm opposition to imposing economic sanctions on Niger Republic, contending that such sanctions would disproportionately impact the vulnerable populations of Niger, Nigeria, and neighboring countries, rather than the intended targets and their associates.
KACRAN voiced its objection to the idea of ECOWAS or European countries intervening militarily in Niger. They argued that such actions could exacerbate insecurity not only in Niger but also across Nigeria and other Sahelian nations. They warned of the possibility of clashes between the intervention forces and the Niger Republic’s military, potentially drawing civilians into the conflict as volunteers under the guise of nationalism.
Expressing concern for the stability of President Bazoum’s leadership and his family, the group contended that attempting to restore democracy through military means could lead to unintended negative consequences.
KACRAN asserted that military action in Niger could have far-reaching implications, particularly for pastoralists in the region. The intervention might hinder the movement of livestock between states as outlined in ECOWAS regulations, thereby posing challenges to their members. Additionally, the group suggested that such actions could lead to an increase in terrorist activities across Niger, Nigeria, and Sahelian states, with defeated culprits potentially dispersing into remote areas and encouraging others to join their ranks, akin to the emergence of Boko Haram insurgents in the past.
The association argued that a military operation would not only have severe economic ramifications for Niger but also disrupt longstanding economic ties between Niger Republic and the Northern states of Nigeria. These ties, established long before the arrival of Arab traders and European colonialists, hold significant historical and cultural significance.
KACRAN cautioned that the proposed military intervention could result in heightened hardship and political instability across West African nations, due to the considerable challenges it might bring about. They highlighted the risk of rebellion and insurgent activity, which many governments in the region might struggle to effectively counter, potentially leading to loss of life and property.
In conclusion, the group urged for careful consideration of these potential consequences before moving forward with any military intervention in Niger, emphasizing the importance of seeking alternative methods to address the situation and restore democratic governance.
