Nigeria's prominent figure Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to rebel military officials, emphasizing the paramount importance of upholding the rule of law and democratic processes, especially when dealing with election-related conflicts in Africa.
Tinubu's statement follows closely on the heels of the recent military coup in Gabon, which resulted in the removal of President Ali Bongo.
Speaking on behalf of the president, Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, conveyed Tinubu's position. He affirmed that power should remain in the hands of the people and not be determined by force.
Tinubu expressed deep concern about the situation in Gabon, acknowledging the potential spread of autocracy across the continent. He highlighted his unwavering belief that democratic processes, adherence to the rule of law, and constitutional mechanisms for resolving electoral disputes must be upheld and preserved in Africa.
In line with these principles, Tinubu is actively engaging with other African heads of state within the African Union to establish a comprehensive consensus on addressing the crisis in Gabon and responding to the growing prevalence of autocratic tendencies in various regions of the continent.
Notably, the military junta in Gabon, known as the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), cited institutional, political, economic, and social crises as reasons for their intervention. They declared the cancellation of the general elections and the closure of borders until further notice, while also dissolving various national institutions.
With this development, Gabon joins a list of African countries, including Sudan, Chad, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, that have experienced military takeovers.