The Arewa Youth Federation accuses Nigerian politicians of exploiting the political instability in Niger Republic to destabilize President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, utilizing disinformation and ethnic sentiments. They challenge the validity of allegations made by the Nigerien junta’s leader regarding Nigeria’s involvement in military subversion, detailing a need for unity among Nigerians against these divisive tactics.
The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has issued a statement condemning certain Nigerian politicians for exploiting the current political turmoil in Niger Republic to weaken President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government. According to AYF President Adamu Kabir Matazu, these individuals are using disinformation and ethnic sentiments to create discord and dissatisfaction among the populace in Northern Nigeria. The tensions have escalated since a military coup in Niger in July 2023, leading to deteriorating diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger.
General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of the Nigerien junta, has accused Nigeria of harboring French military bases intended to destabilize his regime. The AYF has characterized these assertions as unfounded, asserting that they are a deliberate effort by Tchiani to manipulate public perception and garner support for his faltering administration. Additionally, they point to the absence of credible evidence to substantiate Tchiani’s allegations, emphasizing Nigeria’s principled opposition to foreign military bases.
Matazu highlighted, “Tchiani is not alone in this shenanigans… Evidence obtained during our findings shows that there are indications that some politicians are taking advantage of the political crisis.” The AYF accuses these politicians of engaging in what they term “hybrid information warfare,” designed to sow division among voters in the northern region and undermine the current administration.
The group insists that the claims made by Tchiani have been strategically amplified among northern communities, particularly given that his interviews have been conducted in Hausa, which appears to be an attempt to exploit ethnic sentiments. According to the AYF, this is a recurring tactic previously observed during events such as the post-election violence in 2011. The Federation maintains that members of the political elite aim to destabilize President Tinubu’s efforts at governance and reform.
Moreover, the AYF urged Nigerians to be cognizant of these divisive schemes and to stand firm against them. Matazu remarked, “Nigeria has never been a subversive hegemon but has historically sacrificed its resources… to restore stability across the sub-region.” The organization called upon citizens to recognize the importance of unity and work together towards fostering peace and progress within the nation and the larger region.
The political crisis in Niger Republic, which escalated after a military coup in July 2023, has significantly impacted Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with its neighbor. The coup has led to allegations and accusations, particularly from the military regime in Niger directed at the Nigerian government, claiming involvement in destabilizing activities. This period has seen rising tensions and an opportunity for political adversaries within Nigeria to exploit the situation, aiming to create fractures within Northern Nigeria and undermine the President’s administration by leveraging ethnic sentiments and misinformation.
In conclusion, the Arewa Youth Federation has highlighted the dangers posed by certain Nigerian politicians who are taking advantage of the political situation in Niger to advance their agendas against President Tinubu. They emphasize the need for collective vigilance among Nigerians to counteract the divisive tactics perpetuated by these politicians. The AYF urges all citizens to focus on unity, reject misinformation, and commit to supporting governmental measures that promote peace and stability in both Nigeria and the wider region.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
