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Tuggar: Exit of AES Countries Will Have Far-reaching Consequences for West Africa’s Security, Economy, Integration Efforts
Tuggar: Exit of AES Countries Will Have Far-reaching Consequences for West Africa’s Security, Economy, Integration Efforts
By: Michael Mike
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has warned that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will have far-reaching consequences for regional security, economy, and integration efforts.
The minister in a statement on Wednesday by his spokesman, AlKasim AbdulKadir noted that the exit of these countries from ECOWAS is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and diplomatic efforts to address the underlying concerns.
The Minister stressed that the decision to impose sanctions on these countries was a collective one made by the ECOWAS Heads of States and Government, noting that President Bola Tinubu has been working tirelessly to address the concerns of these countries through diplomatic channels.
Tuggar said: Several delegations have been sent to these countries, and the presidents of Togo and Sierra Leone have been appointed as mediators to facilitate dialogue.
“Additionally, ECOWAS has lifted sanctions on these countries, paving the way for potential reconciliation.”
Tuggar also said, the security implications of this exit are a significant concern, as the region is already grappling with terrorism and humanitarian crises.
He said: “ECOWAS has established a 1650-man strong brigade to combat terrorism and offered financial assistance to support the affected countries in their fight against terrorism.
“The economic implications are also substantial, as these countries will no longer be part of the regional economic community, potentially limiting their access to markets and hindering economic growth.”
“The withdrawal may also disrupt regional integration efforts, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“The African Union and other international organisations have expressed concerns about the potential impact on regional integration efforts and the stability of the continent.
The Minister emphasized the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to mitigate the challenges arising from this development.
He said: “The regional bloc has also offered support to the affected countries to address their security concerns.
“We recognize the challenges faced by these countries, and we are committed to providing assistance to help them address their security concerns.”
He also said the exit of these countries from ECOWAS has also raised concerns about the potential impact on regional health organisations.
He noted that: “The West African Health Organization (WAHO) is based in Burkina Faso, and its relocation could have significant implications for the region.
He however emphasized that the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc. “We hope that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors and work towards a more stable and prosperous future for all.” He said.
While reacting to uncertainty surrounding the future of the Alliance of Sahel States(AES) countries’ relationship with ECOWAS, Tuggar said with continued diplomacy, cooperation, and a commitment to the well-being of the people, it is possible to navigate these challenges and promote a more stable and prosperous West Africa.
“The region is at a critical juncture, and the decisions made in the coming months and years will have a lasting impact on the future of West Africa.
“As such, it is essential that leaders prioritize the needs and concerns of the people and work towards finding solutions that promote peace, stability, and prosperity.
“Ultimately, the future of the AES countries’ relationship with ECOWAS will depend on the ability of leaders to work together and find common ground.”
“As President Tinubu emphasized, the door remains open for these countries to rejoin the regional bloc, and it is hoped that they will take advantage of this opportunity to re-engage with their West African neighbors.” He said.
Tuggar: Exit of AES Countries Will Have Far-reaching Consequences for West Africa’s Security, Economy, Integration Efforts
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Bandit attack in Zamfara leaves one dead, three abducted
By: Zagazola Makama
Armed bandits have killed a man, injured another, and abducted three people during attacks in Magazu and Fadama areas of Zamfara State, sources said.
According to sources, the attack occurred in the early hours of Feb. 17 when gunmen invaded the western part of Magazu Village, shooting and injuring Aliyu Musa. His neighbour, Ibrahim Haruna, who reportedly came to assist, was shot dead.
In a separate raid later in the same area, gunmen stormed Fadama, abducting three persons, including Abdulhakim Salmanu, 46, and two others whose identities are yet to be confirmed.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were mobilized to the scene, but the attackers had fled before their arrival. Efforts to rescue the abducted victims and track down the perpetrators are ongoing.
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