Nigeria president bola Tinubu is facing a huge backlash

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Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu is under fire domestically for his threat to employ military force to reverse the coup in neighboring Niger. Local media has reported strong opposition to military intervention during a session of the Senate, despite Tinubu's party holding control.

This opposition was particularly pronounced among lawmakers representing states along the extensive 1,500km border with Niger. Widespread condemnation of the possibility of war has also emerged across the nation.

The West African regional bloc, Ecowas, had set a Sunday deadline for the junta to relinquish power or face potential military action. This decision was largely associated with Tinubu, the current Ecowas chairman, and Nigeria's influential status within the organization.

Despite the junta's defiance of the ultimatum, Ecowas refrained from an immediate troop deployment, which was met with relief by many Nigerians favoring a diplomatic resolution.

There are concerns regarding the feasibility of a seven-day deadline, considering the need for parliamentary approval before deploying the military in Nigeria and other countries.

Additionally, criticism has arisen over the ordered electricity cut to Niger, resulting in blackouts in Niamey and other cities. Critics argue that this action violates a treaty that allowed Nigeria to build a dam on the River Niger. Supporters of Tinubu contend that the power cuts aim to pressure the junta into returning power to ousted President Mohamed Bazoum without military confrontation.

The potential military intervention in Niger holds significant implications for northern Nigeria, which already faces substantial security challenges. An influential group of Muslim clerics in northern Nigeria has cautioned against rushing into a conflict with a neighbor due to global political pressures.

Certainly, let's delve deeper into the context and implications of this article.

**1. Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu's Controversial Stand:**

   President Bola Tinubu's willingness to employ military force to reverse the coup in Niger has stirred a significant controversy. This stance has raised questions about Nigeria's foreign policy and its approach to regional conflicts. It's noteworthy that this decision comes during Tinubu's presidency, a period marked by heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns about the stability of neighboring nations.

**2. Domestic Opposition and the Senate:**

   The fact that there was strong opposition to military intervention even within the Senate, which is controlled by Tinubu's party, underscores the complexity of this issue. It suggests that the president's decision faces internal challenges and differing opinions within his own political base. This domestic opposition further complicates the path forward.

**3. Ecowas and Nigeria's Influence:**

   Tinubu's role as the current chairman of Ecowas, a regional bloc in West Africa, adds another layer of significance to this situation. Nigeria's prominence within Ecowas amplifies its responsibility in regional matters. The region's approach to the coup in Niger reflects not only Nigeria's stance but also the dynamics of regional cooperation and diplomacy.

**4. Diplomatic vs. Military Resolution:**

   The relief expressed by many Nigerians at Ecowas' decision to refrain from immediate military action highlights the preference for diplomatic solutions. This raises questions about the feasibility of resolving complex geopolitical issues through military means, especially when it involves neighboring countries with shared ties and interests.

**5. Electricity Cut and Treaty Violation:**

   The controversy surrounding the electricity cut to Niger is multi-faceted. On one hand, it's seen as a tactic to pressure the junta to restore power to the ousted president without resorting to military force. On the other hand, critics argue that this action violates a treaty between the two nations, bringing international agreements and obligations into the spotlight.

**6. Implications for Northern Nigeria:**

   The potential military intervention against Niger carries significant implications for northern Nigeria, which already faces severe security challenges. Any regional instability could have a direct impact on Nigeria's internal security, potentially exacerbating existing issues.

**7. Caution from Religious Leaders:**

   The statement from an influential group of Muslim clerics in northern Nigeria cautioning against rushing into a conflict emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the consequences of this decision. It underscores the complexity of balancing regional diplomacy, internal politics, and international pressures.

In summary, the article highlights the multifaceted nature of the situation involving Nigeria, Niger, and Ecowas. It brings to the forefront questions about diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the complexities of foreign policy decisions in a region with shared interests and challenges. The outcome of this situation will likely have far-reaching implications for both Nigeria and its neighbors.