Yerima Shettima Responded as Niger Coup Leaders Question Legitimacy of Tinubu’s Government

In a recent interview with THE PUNCH, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the head of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (ACF), discussed the situation in the Niger Republic at the moment and how it affects democracy. CONTINUE READING>>>>>

When asked about his concerns on the Niger coup and its threat to democracy, Shettima cited his ties to organisations like NADECO and PRONACO as well as his past in the pro-democracy struggle. He highlighted the need to protect democratically elected governments and expressed resistance to any methods that would accomplish this.

A legitimate government being overthrown in a coup in the 21st century, according to Shettima, poses a serious threat to not only Nigeria but the entire African continent. He urged everyone to join together in denouncing such activities and emphasised the need of using diplomacy as a means of resolving differences as opposed to military coups.

He praised the leaders of ECOWAS, including President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their opposition to the Niger coup and dedication to restoring the constitutional administration. Shettima emphasised Nigeria and Niger’s close proximity to each other as well as how these factors indirectly affect Nigeria.

Shettima argued that an elected government should be respected and that any issues should be resolved in accordance with the constitution in response to the coup leaders’ challenge to the legitimacy of the current Nigerian administration. In order to express their preferences, he urged Niger’s inhabitants to participate in the voting process. Continue Full Reading>>>

Shettima criticised people who contest election results and pleaded with them to respect democracy in order to prevent the nation from becoming unstable.