Arewa Youth Federation Responds to Politicians Exploiting Niger Crisis for Division
The Arewa Youth Federation has condemned the actions of politicians exploiting the political crisis in Niger to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. They accuse these individuals of using disinformation and ethnic divisions to create unrest in Northern Nigeria, particularly following recent allegations made by Niger’s military leader against Nigeria.
The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has expressed concern over Nigerian politicians exploiting the ongoing political turmoil in the Niger Republic to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. According to AYF President Adamu Kabir Matazu, these politicians are utilizing disinformation and ethnic sentiments to foster divisions and discontent within Northern Nigeria. Following the junta’s takeover in Niger in July 2023, relations between Nigeria and Niger have significantly deteriorated, exacerbated by the accusations from General Abdourahamane Tchiani of the Nigerien junta, alleging that Nigeria hosts French military bases aimed at destabilizing Niger.
The AYF dismissed Tchiani’s claims as unfounded and a strategic effort to manipulate public sentiment to support his fragile regime. The group highlighted that the lack of solid evidence backing Tchiani’s accusations, combined with Nigeria’s consistent opposition to foreign military bases, underscores the falsehood of his allegations. Matazu stated, “Tchiani is not alone in this shenanigans, because some politicians who lost out during the 2023 Nigeria’s general election are hellbent on trying to frustrate President Tinubu’s efforts to deliver dividends of democracy to Nigerians.”
Furthermore, the AYF asserted that some politicians are seizing this opportunity to instigate discontent in Northern Nigeria to discredit the current administration. They accused these unpatriotic elements of engaging in hybrid information warfare, characterized by the dissemination of disinformation and fabricated news to distance northern voters from the government. “This is evident in the way General Tchiani’s baseless claims have been amplified, particularly in the northern region. The fact that the interview was held in Hausa suggests an attempt to whip up ethnic sentiment and mobilise support against the Tinubu’s led federal government.”
The group cautioned against such divisive tactics and urged citizens to reject attempts to destabilize the country and the region. Matazu remarked, “Nigeria has never been a subversive hegemon but has historically sacrificed its resources and Armed Forces to restore stability across the sub-region.” The AYF called for a collective effort to promote peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.
The political situation in Niger Republic has become precarious following a military coup in July 2023, leading to a significant downturn in diplomatic relations with Nigeria. General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who heads the junta, has made allegations against Nigeria, framing them as a threat to Niger’s stability, prompting reactions from various Nigerian groups. Amid these developments, the Arewa Youth Federation has highlighted the dangers of political entities using the crisis for their gain, particularly by fostering division within Northern Nigeria.
In summary, the Arewa Youth Federation warns that some Nigerian politicians are manipulating the current political crisis in Niger to undermine President Tinubu’s government, using tactics of disinformation and ethnic sentiments to create discord in Northern Nigeria. The AYF urges vigilance among the populace, stressing the need to reject divisive political strategies and support efforts to uphold national unity and stability in the face of external and internal challenges.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
