Executive Director of the Union of African Muslim Scholars Bamba Sheds Light on Algeria’s Pivotal Role in Quelling the Crisis in Niger, Preventing the Escalation of Military Intervention
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In an exclusive interview with “Dzair Tube,” Omar Bamba, the Executive Director of Union of African Muslim Scholars, sheds light on Algeria’s pivotal role in quelling the crisis in Niger and preventing the escalation of military intervention. Bamba emphasizes the honorable and neutral stance Algeria has taken, outlining how it seeks a peaceful resolution to the conflict, steering clear of the destructive path of armed intervention.
Bamba underscores that Algeria’s comprehensive approach to the crisis positions it as a key player capable of facilitating a peaceful solution. Collaborating with previous mediators, such as Nigerian scholars who’ve been involved in mediation efforts, and leveraging the expertise of special envoy Abdulsalami Abubakar, a former Nigerian President, Algeria’s diplomatic initiatives find strong support in these joint endeavors.
Highlighting Algeria’s proactive engagement, Bamba notes the significance of consultations, meetings, and Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf’s diplomatic missions in averting a potential war not only in Niger but also across the region, which is already grappling with the Libyan conflict.
The Executive Director of Union of African Muslim Scholars emphasizes that Algeria’s warnings and tireless efforts can significantly decrease the likelihood of West African Economic Community (ECOWAS) nations resorting to military intervention in Niger. Algeria’s influence, combined with the united stance of Mali and Burkina Faso against intervention, forms a substantial deterrent.
Bamba expresses concern over ECOWAS straying from its charter’s emphasis on peace and development, signaling a potential military involvement. He suggests that such a deviation undermines the organization’s primary purpose as an economic union, violating its responsibilities.
Bamba cautions against external agendas that could trigger military intervention to serve foreign interests, particularly those of France. He appeals to Niger’s neighboring countries to resist these agendas to prevent compromising their own security and stability.
Discussing the Union of African Scholars’ efforts, Bamba shares their commitment to end the Nigerien crisis by facilitating dialogue and reconciliation. Amid worsening living conditions and economic crises in neighboring countries like Burkina Faso and Guinea Conakry, the union calls for solidarity and unity to overcome the challenges.
The Union of African Scholars stands alongside Algeria’s endeavor to achieve a peaceful resolution and urges the lifting of sanctions imposed on Niger by ECOWAS countries. The union’s proactive stance aims to shield the Nigerien population from further suffering and the region from destabilization.
Bamba highlights the dangers of military intervention, warning that it could inadvertently revitalize rebel terrorist groups operating in the region. He lends the union’ support to the mediation efforts of Nigerian scholars, Algeria, the Emir of Sokoto, and ECOWAS representatives.
In closing, Bamba emphasizes Union of African Muslim Scholars’ call for Muslims worldwide to pray for Niger, uniting in the hope that the country can swiftly overcome its challenges with minimal damage. His words remind us that the path to peace requires unity, diplomacy, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
