By Daniel Maduka
The Northern Senators Forum has described the decision of the Regional Body, Economic Community Of West African States, ECOWAS, to lift the sanctions imposed on Niger Republic as a welcome development.
This is even as it has called on the Niger Junta Leaders to fast track the processes aimed at restoring democratic order.
In a statement issued on Saturday February 24 2024 by the Northern Senators leader, Kawu Sumaila, the Forum particularly appreciated the leaders of ECOWAS for being receptive and responsive to pleas from respected quarters for a review of the sanctions slammed on Niger as a result of the July 26 ,2023 ouster of the country,s democratically elected government by the military.
“We are pleased that ECOWAS has responded to pleas by us both at individual and collective levels.
“The Northern Senators Forum believes that the principled and emphatic decision made by the ECOWAS to lift the sanctions on Niger is a testament to the organizations commitment to regional integration and solidarity, cooperation and respect for human rights.
“The action will go a long way in alleviating the suffering of the people of Niger Republic as well as restoring stability and economic growth and development in the West African Sub region.” Senator Kawu noted.
The Northern Senators’ Forum while commending ECOWAS for the bold decision, however aligned itself with the stand of the regional body on the need for early restoration of democratic governance in Niger.
“The Northern Senators Forum stands in solidarity with ECOWAS and its leadership on the importance of returning Niger Republic to democratic governance.
We are therefore calling on Niger Republic authorities to hasten the process of restoring democracy and the reign of rule of law in the country.
The Northern Senators thanked President Bola Tinubu and other leaders of ECOWAS, as well as all other eminent people whose interventions culminated in the lifting of the sanctions
