Nigerian Politicians Exploit Niger Crisis to Undermine Tinubu’s Government

The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) accused certain Nigerian politicians of exploiting the political crisis in Niger Republic to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government. AYF’s President, Adamu Kabir Matazu, stated these politicians are using disinformation to create divisions in Northern Nigeria. The group also denounced recent allegations from Niger’s junta leader, General Tchiani, claiming they are baseless attempts to rally support for a faltering regime.

The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has voiced concerns regarding the exploitation of the political crisis in Niger Republic by certain Nigerian politicians. In a statement delivered by AYF President Adamu Kabir Matazu, the federation accused these politicians of utilizing disinformation and ethnic tensions to destabilize the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The ongoing crisis, following a junta’s seize of power in Niger in July 2023, has led to a deterioration in Nigeria’s relations with its neighbor, further exacerbated by unsubstantiated accusations from General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of the Nigerien junta. He alleged that Nigeria is harboring French military bases aimed at disrupting Niger’s sovereignty, allegations the AYF has dismissed as unfounded and intended to manipulate public opinion in favor of Tchiani’s faltering regime.

Matazu remarked that such tactics are reminiscent of strategies used in previous political turmoil, citing attempts to promote division during the 2011 post-election violence. Moreover, it has been suggested that disillusioned politicians from the 2023 general elections are collaborating with Tchiani to undermine President Tinubu’s administration. He stressed that these actions are part of a broader scheme to create discord among northern voters and subtract support from the current administration. The AYF reinforces the importance of national unity and urged Nigerians to be discerning of deceptive political narratives aimed at fostering discontent and division.

In their statement, AYF insisted that Nigeria has historically championed regional stability and urged the public to reject divisive politics that threaten national cohesion. They called upon citizens to acknowledge the reality of the situation and to actively support initiatives that promote unity and progress within the nation and the region.

The political landscape in Nigeria has been notably affected by the recent upheaval in Niger Republic, where a military junta has taken control. This political crisis has led to accusations from Nigerien leaders toward Nigeria, claiming it harbors foreign military influences seeking to destabilize the neighboring country. The AYF has positioned itself against these narratives, asserting that certain Nigerian politicians leverage the crisis to create discord, particularly in Northern Nigeria, blurring the lines of loyalty and public opinion against President Tinubu’s government. There is an ongoing concern about the spread of ethno-political sentiments that could further fuel tensions amongst Nigerian citizens.

In summary, the Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has highlighted the manipulative tactics employed by some Nigerian politicians amidst the ongoing political crisis in Niger. By leveraging disinformation and ethnic sentiment, these politicians aim to undermine President Tinubu’s administration and create divisions within the Northern populace. The AYF has called for vigilance amongst Nigerians to reject such divisive maneuvers while supporting the administration’s efforts toward peace and unity in the region.

Original Source: dailytrust.com