A delegation of Islamic clerics who met with President Bola Tinubu on Thursday at the Aso Rock Villa has shared details of their discussion and the President’s directive about the political situation in Niger Republic.
The clerics disclosed President Tinubu appreciated their efforts so far and gave a listening ear to their feedback.
Bellnews recalls the Islamic leaders, led by Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, were at the Presidential Villa, Abuja to brief the President on the outcome of their discussion with the head of the military junta in Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani.
The Ulamas had earlier got the approval of President Tinubu to negotiate with the coup leaders in the Niger Republic on behalf of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
After their meeting with General Tchiani in Niger, they visited the Presidential Villa on Thursday to brief President Tinubu on the outcome of their visit over the political situation in the country.
The clerics had previously voiced their opposition to war and recommended dialogue in resolving the situation in Niger Republic.
Speaking with newsmen after briefing President Tinubu, the Islamic clerics revealed they maintained their initial position of resolving the political crisis amicably without the use of military might.
Sheikh Bauchi said the Nigerian President also approved their return to Niger Republic for another round of dialogue with the military junta.
“We have just met with President Bola Tinubu and told him all what went on there in Niger.
“He appreciated (our efforts) and he still gave us the mandate that we should continue to make this dialogue and discuss with the junta over there, because they gave us listening ears and we are sure, through peaceful discussions, we’ll be able to achieve what we want.
“We are still going back there to ensure that through peaceful and amicable ways, as spiritual leaders, we’ll be able to do and contribute what we can be able to do.
“What we want? We don’t want war, we want peace to reign in our region. So may Allah continue to bless the President for giving us this opportunity,” he said.