A Catholic Priest known as Rev. Fr. Magnus Ebere, also referred to as Fr. E-Dey Work, has cautioned against employing military force as a solution to the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic.
Fr. Magnus Ebere emphasised that resorting to military action by ECOWAS forces could lead to dire consequences, particularly within the region and, more specifically, Nigeria.
Speaking at the Canaanland Adoration Counselling Centre in Onicha, located in the Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, Fr. Ebere asserted that history has demonstrated that military interventions rarely yield the expected solutions to crisis situations.
He stated, “Embarking on unnecessary war with the Coupists in Niger will worsen the situation so the only solution to such a situation is dialogue and not war adding that Nigeria will be the worst for it if military aggression is used”
Fr. E-Dey Work called on politician Bola Tinubu to focus on addressing Nigeria’s internal problems rather than involving himself in the affairs of another country.
He advised ECOWAS countries to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy when engaging with the coupists in Niger, emphasising that such an approach is the most prudent.
He also directed a plea towards the President, urging him to address the growing hunger, widespread depression, and increasing hardships experienced by Nigerians. Fr. Ebere expressed concern about the deteriorating situation in the country.
Critically, the Spiritual Director of the Canaanland Counselling Centre criticised Tinubu’s swift removal of the oil subsidy, noting that Tinubu should have taken time to familiarise himself with his office, assess the environment, establish his Cabinet, and consult Economic Advisers before making such decisions.
Fr. Ebere highlighted that Tinubu’s absence from the swearing-in ceremony in favour of his quick removal of the subsidy had negative implications for the nation’s image.
Fr. Ebere added a perspective regarding President Tinubu’s intentions, suggesting that Tinubu aimed to claim credit for Peter Obi’s manifesto.
During campaigns, Obi criticised the fuel subsidy as a fraudulent practice and promised to eliminate it upon being elected.
Fr. Ebere remarked, “In order to score cheap popularity, not knowing the mindset of Peter Obi, Tinubu hurriedly removed it without any solution”.
