July 31, 2023

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), an umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, has called for the establishment of a military command to check coups in West West Africa.

The National Chairman of the IPAC, Malam Yabagi Sani, made the call on Monday in Abuja.

Sani said that there should be a formal arrangement for separate armies to work together for sustainable stability of polity in the region.

He also advised the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take swift military actions in order to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger.

“The chiefs of defence staff of ECOWAS should quickly commence deliberations on military options.

“IPAC the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, unequivocally supports the resolution of the West African leaders under the able Chairmanship of President Bola Tinubu.

“Tinubu on Sunday gave the military junta in Niger one week to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum or face use of force to restore rule of law in Niger.

“IPAC also supports the immediate imposition of financial sanctions, travel bans and other punitive actions against the junta, their families and supporters.

‘We call for extra protection for President Bazoum who has been held hostage by the junta.

“IPAC also commends President Bola Tinubu for swiftly convening the emergency summit of the 15-nation ECOWAS demanding the immediate release and reinstatement of elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been held by the military since Wednesday,” he said.

Sani commended France, the European Union, U.S. UN, AU and other international bodies whohave already suspended security cooperation and financial aid to Niger.(NAN)