A former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has explained why the Economic Community of West African States must avoid going to war with Niger Republic.
In the early hours of Tuesday, El-Rufai used his account on X, formerly known as Twitter, to call on the West African organisation to act to halt a conflict that could have an impact on the northern region of Nigeria.
He likened ECOWAS’s probable military intervention in Niger to a civil war between brothers. “I remember the Dire Straits rock classic from the 1970s”, he tweeted.
He said, “TUESDAY THOUGHT: As ECOWAS beats the drums of war, I recall the 1970s rock classic by Dire Straits – ‘Brothers in Arms’ because a war within our sub region is a war between brothers.
“Indeed, the people of Niger Republic are one and the same with those living in Northern Nigeria. Let us bend therefore over backwards to avoid this civil war between brothers.
“And so for this bright Tuesday, please enjoy this classic and reflect on the equally timeless lyrics. Music is something to enjoy, but being so overwhelmed with public affairs in the last 10 years, I have lost valuable pleasurable moments. Time to catch up on lost time. Enjoy!! Life is too short not too!! – #elrufai
