As the deadline given the military leadership of Niger Republic by ECOWAS expires, a frontline Muslim group, Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), has cautioned ECOWAS against carrying out it’s threatened military action against Niger.

According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria, the caution is contained in a statement issued in Kaduna by JNI Secretary General, Prof Khalid Aliyu.

According to Prof Aliyu, the JNI, representing the collective voice of the Muslim community, expressed its deep concern over the seizure of power through a coup from the democratically elected Niger Republic, President Mohamed Bozoum.

“We firmly note the relevance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law to fostering the stability, development and steady progress within nations.

“Without a doubt, these are the cornerstones for good governance because democratic principles and the rule of law prevent arbitrary use of force and power and ensure consistency with international human rights, norms and standards,“ Aliyu said.

On the efforts so far undertaken by the Nigerian government, including the initiation of a dialogue process, aimed at resolving the crisis in Niger Republic, the group said: “While this attempt may not have yielded the desired results, it demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful resolutions.

“We acknowledge that dialogue is an invaluable tool in preventing further bloodshed and instability within the Sahel Region, which has many political and security uncertainties.

“Nevertheless, we wish to raise a word of caution against pursuing military action as a means to restore democracy.”

Aliyu noted that “the northern states of Nigeria and the Niger Republic necessitates a more cautious and thoughtful action and approach.”

He said “with several Nigerian states sharing borders with Niger Republic, military intervention could have unintended consequences that might impact the peace and stability of both nations.”

Prof Aliyu therefore called upon all stakeholders to concentrate on diplomatic and political resolution to the crisis in Niger Republic.

“We believe strongly that dialogue, cooperation and negotiation are the most effective means to establish lasting peace and stability in the region,” he said.