The Arewa Youth Federation has accused Nigerian politicians of exploiting the political crisis in Niger to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government. AYF claims these politicians are using disinformation and ethnic sentiment to instigate divisions in Northern Nigeria. They label the allegations from Niger’s junta leader against Nigeria as unfounded and highlighted a coordinated effort to destabilize the Tinubu administration, urging citizens to reject divisive narratives.
The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has raised concerns regarding certain Nigerian politicians allegedly capitalizing on the ongoing political turbulence in Niger Republic to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a recent statement from AYF President Adamu Kabir Matazu, it was emphasized that these politicians are manipulating disinformation and ethnic tensions to foster discord within Northern Nigeria. The relationship between Nigeria and Niger has notably deteriorated since the military takeover in Niger in July 2023, leading to increased tensions, particularly following unfounded claims made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani of the Nigerien junta about Nigeria allegedly harboring French military bases to destabilize Niger.
The AYF countered these accusations, deeming them unsubstantiated and a strategic ploy to rally public support for Tchiani amidst his regime’s crisis. Matazu highlighted a lack of evidence substantiating Tchiani’s allegations and asserted that Nigeria has consistently opposed the presence of foreign military bases. Furthermore, he accused disgruntled politicians from the recent elections of attempting to create discontent among Northern voters through hybrid warfare tactics characterized by misinformation and fake news.
Matazu noted, “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.” He stated that these political elites are covertly aligning with Tchiani and amplifying his claims as part of a broader agenda to undermine Tinubu’s efforts at governance. The AYF called upon the citizenry to remain alert against these divisive tactics and reaffirmed Nigeria’s historical role as a stabilizing force in the region, urging unity and progress in the face of subversion.
The political landscape in Nigeria has been significantly impacted by the recent coup in neighboring Niger Republic, which has aggravated tensions between the two nations. The military takeover led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani has created diplomatic strains, prompting unfounded accusations against Nigeria. The Arewa Youth Federation, representing Northern youth interests, has identified a pattern of opportunistic behaviors among Nigerian politicians who are purportedly exploiting this crisis to destabilize President Tinubu’s administration as well as to exacerbate ethnic divisions within the country. This situation recalls previous political strife in Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing struggle against disinformation and divisive politics.
In conclusion, the Arewa Youth Federation’s statement underscores the critical juncture Nigeria faces amid political upheaval in Niger Republic. The Federation’s call for vigilance against the exploitation of ethnic sentiments and political discord is pivotal for maintaining national unity. As the AYF champions truth and unity, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing attempts at manipulation by certain political elites who may seek to compromise the stability of the nation and the progress of the Tinubu administration.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
