Arewa Youth Federation Warns Against Exploitation of Niger’s Crisis by Nigerian Politicians

The Arewa Youth Federation has accused certain Nigerian politicians of exploiting the political crisis in Niger Republic to undermine President Tinubu’s government. They assert that disinformation and ethnic sentiments are being used to create division in Northern Nigeria. The group criticized allegations made by Niger’s junta leader against Nigeria as unfounded and part of a broader strategy by discontented politicians. The AYF urges citizens to remain vigilant and support national unity.

The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has expressed concern over the exploitation of Niger Republic’s political turmoil by certain Nigerian politicians aimed at undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a statement delivered by AYF President Adamu Kabir Matazu, the group alleged that some politicians are manipulating disinformation and ethnic tensions to foster discord and dissatisfaction within Northern Nigeria. Following the junta’s seizure of power in Niger in July 2023, bilateral relations between Nigeria and Niger Republic have notably soured, exacerbated by incendiary statements from General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the junta’s leader, who accused Nigeria of harboring French military forces to destabilize Niger.

The AYF characterized Tchiani’s allegations as unfounded, branding them a strategic move to exploit public opinion and generate support for his challenged regime. The organization highlighted the absence of substantial evidence supporting his claims and underscored Nigeria’s steadfast opposition to foreign military installations, declaring Tchiani’s accusations to be fabrications. Matazu stated that Tchiani’s actions paralleled those of some politicians who, having lost political clout during the 2023 elections, are intent on derailing President Tinubu’s efforts in governance.

Evidence gathered by AYF indicates that these politicians are manipulating Niger’s crisis and the ensuing diplomatic issues with ECOWAS to instigate discontent aimed at discrediting the current administration, particularly in Northern Nigeria. Such unpatriotic figures engage in hybrid information warfare, disseminating disinformation and falsehoods to create rifts between the northern electorate and the government. They are purportedly supporting Tchiani’s regime and amplifying his groundless allegations against Nigeria, catering to external influences keen on destabilizing ECOWAS and the broader Sahel region. Matazu pointed out that Tchiani’s accusations, particularly conveyed in the Hausa language, aimed to incite ethnic sentiments and rally opposition against the Federal Government led by Tinubu.

He noted this tactic as a recurrent theme among politicians, paralleling strategies employed during the 2011 post-election upheaval. Furthermore, certain elites are seemingly committed to subverting President Tinubu’s administration, viewing an alliance with Tchiani as part of their overarching agenda to sustain their political influence amidst impending changes spearheaded by the president. The AYF ardently urged Nigerians to stay vigilant against divisive tactics that threaten national stability, stating that Nigeria has historically invested its resources and military prowess to reinstate peace in the region. Matazu called on citizens to recognize the truth and embrace initiatives promoting harmony, unity, and progress in Nigeria.

The political environment in Niger Republic has recently become contentious, particularly following the military coup in July 2023 that led to the establishment of a junta government. Relations between Nigeria and Niger have deteriorated, marked by accusations from General Tchiani against Nigeria regarding the presence of foreign military bases. These developments have coincided with Nigeria’s internal political landscape, where analysts have observed attempts by some Nigerian politicians to capitalize on the situation in Niger to undermine President Tinubu’s government and manipulate ethnic sentiments among the populace, especially in Northern Nigeria.

The AYF’s statement emphasizes the need for vigilance among Nigerians against divisive strategies employed by opportunistic politicians exploiting the political crisis in Niger. The organization advocates for unity and truth, urging citizens to reject unfounded allegations aimed at destabilizing both the nation and the region. This situation underscores the broader implications of regional political dynamics on domestic governance and the importance of collective support for the leadership of President Tinubu to foster national cohesiveness and progress.

Original Source: dailytrust.com