- The demonstrators condemn the military coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Mohamed Bazoum
- They also caution against any military intervention in Niger and advocate for the restoration of democratic leadership
In Kano State, hundreds of Nigerien nationals have organized a peaceful demonstration to express their opposition to the recent coup in their home country.
Furthermore, they have expressed their endorsement of the sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Niger.
While condemning the military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum’s democratically elected government, these residents also cautioned against any form of military interference in their nation.
Leading the peaceful protest on Saturday in Kano, Lawalli Mamman Barma, the group’s Chairman, appealed to the leaders of the military coup. He called for the unconditional release of President Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and all individuals who were reportedly taken captive during the military intervention that occurred on July 16, 2023.
He said, “We demand without condition, the release of the president of Niger Republic, as well as his family and all other kidnapped persons.”
The chairman, while calling for the restoration of democratic leadership in Niger Republic, also, urged ECOWAS to rescind its decision to enforce military forces in the country, stressing that dialogue is the best approach to resolving conflict than military confrontation.
In another development, WithinNigeria reported that the Police Commissioner in Kano State, Mr Hussaini Gumel, dismissed reports about protests by residents of the state over the planned deployment of military personnel by ECOWAS to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic.
Gumel told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a telephone interview that the command was not aware of any protest by residents of the city against the proposed troops deployment.
“I am just hearing the report from you on the so-called demonstration by Kano residents because of the political situation in Niger Republic.
“You can see we are just coming back from the Passing-Out ceremony of graduands of the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, where about 169 cadet officers were commissioned by President Tinubu.
“So, frankly speaking I have not given any person or group of residents permit to embark on demonstration because of the political happenings in our next-door neighbour, Niger Republic.
“You can see Kano is a peaceful State and we will continue to provide security to enable residents to move about their businesses without threats to lives and property,” he said.