After the offer they made to play their role in the conflict that broke out between the military that made a coup in Niger and ECOWAS, Islamic scholars from Nigeria had the opportunity to talk with the military leaders of Niger.
Under the leadership of Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, the National chairman of Izallah group Nigeria, the scholars discussed with the coup forces for three hours.
Sheik Bala Lau told the BBC that from the beginning, the army had to apologize for not listening to the delegation of the former military president of Nigeria, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, the Sultan and others.
“The Electricity power cut and the denial of access to food in Niger led to protests and the youths came out that day, to avoid being misbehaved, that’s why they couldn’t give them the opportunity to talk to them, but they said we offer apology on their behalf,” as Bala Lau told the BBC.
In terms of what they have achieved,the Scholars said that the door to diplomatic talks has been opened, because the soldiers have said that they are now ready to talk with ECOWAS representatives, at any time.
“From the moment they welcomed us, we knew that our journey was a success.
They sent ministers and the Prime Minister of the country to the airport to come and received us, and they took us to the presidential palace themselves.
“We talked for about three hours with them, we talked about many things.
We have delivered a message and we have advised to avoid bloodshed, because when the beginning of conflict is known, its end is not known.
“We showed them the importance of cooperation between Nigeria and Niger, because it is a long history,” said Sheik Bala Lau.
He added that the Nigerien soldiers were happy with this effort and indicated that they will cooperate in order to have a discussion.
Bala Lau said there are many messages he will deliver to the President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu and ECOWAS which will not be disclosed on air.
Even when he was asked about when the soldiers think it is appropriate to discuss with them, he said “wherever they are called, they will go and whenever”.
The scholars include, Sheik Bala Lau who led the team and gave an explanation.
Sheik Karibullahi Nasiru Kabara, Sheik Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi, Prof. Khalid, Secretary of Jama’atu Nasril Islam, and Prof. Salisu Shehu, among others.
