Series of meeting held to resolve the political unrest was aborted between representatives of the African Union (AU), ECOWAS, and a high-ranking US diplomat with the military rulers. A delegation raised by ECOWAS had attempted to broker peace with the junta but was met with resistance, as the military leadership declined to engage in discussions.
Sanusi could be banking on influence and standing within the Tijjaniya sect to provide a bridge for dialogue between ECOWAS and the military rulers, as the Tijjaniya sect is the dominant Sufi order in the Niger Republic.
In photos that have gone viral, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi, the Sultan of Damagaran, and members of the Junta began can be seen seated together. Damagaran is Niger’s third-largest city.
According to sources close to the situation, Sanusi’s visit was aimed at opening a channel for negotiation with the junta. It is believed that he undertook this journey in his personal capacity, with the backing of President Bola Tinubu.
President Tinubu, who also chairs ECOWAS, has expressed his worries about the escalating impasse and its potential impact on the relationship between Nigeria and Niger, as well as the well-being of citizens in both nations.
“His Highness took the trip in his personal capacity but with the knowledge of President Bola Tinubu following his concerns about the impasse and the likely consequences it is already having on Nigeria/Niger relations and the citizens of the two countries.”
The timing of Sanusi’s meeting with the junta leaders is noteworthy, as it occurred just one day before the scheduled gathering of ECOWAS leaders in Abuja. President Tinubu had organized this meeting following the expiration of a 7-day ultimatum issued by the regional bloc, demanding the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum.
As speculation mounts about the potential outcomes of Sanusi’s engagement with the junta leaders, many are cautiously optimistic that his influence and standing within the Tijjaniya sect could provide a bridge for dialogue between ECOWAS and the military rulers.
This unexpected diplomatic move may just hold the key to unlocking a path toward resolution in the ongoing crisis in Niger.