Chief Bode George Warns President Tinubu Against Planned Invasion Of Niger, Advises Diplomacy Instead

…Commends President For Initiating A Diplomatic Approach By Sending A Delegation To Niger Consisting Of Respected Leaders

BY ABUSATAR HAMED

LAGOS, August 4, 2023 – Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George, the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland and a retired General in the Nigerian military, has penned a letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, cautioning against involving Nigeria in any military war with Niger Republic.

In the letter dated August 4, 2023, Chief George acknowledges President Tinubu’s efforts in the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic.

He commended the President for initiating a diplomatic approach by sending a delegation consisting of respected leaders like General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar, to meet with the Military High Command in Niger.

Chief George emphasised the importance of diplomacy and believes that peaceful negotiations are always a better option than military action.

He urged the President to prioritize resolving the crises within Nigeria before venturing into international conflicts.

Chief George expressed concerns about the current state of the Nigerian economy, the ongoing electoral process, and the need to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

He questions the potential benefits of engaging in a military war with Niger Republic and emphasizes the challenges posed by neighboring countries and international powers’ involvement.

Chief George reminds President Tinubu that war is not an easy endeavor, having experienced it firsthand as a retired General.

He implored the President not to force Nigerians into an endless war and instead encourages focusing on resolving issues within Nigeria while allowing Nigeriens to deal with their internal challenges.

Chief George pointed out the potential repercussions of war on Nigerian states sharing borders with Niger Republic, highlighting the risk to civilians and possible resurgence of criminal activities in the border areas.

He advised the President to consider Nigeria’s national interests first and cautions against hastily entering another country militarily.

Chief George draws attention to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as an example of the devastating consequences of war.

The retired Military General reiterated the importance of diplomatic efforts and urged the envoys to continue their discussions with Niger.

He emphasised that war is not a trivial matter and that careful consideration should be given to the consequences before taking any action.