Niger: General Tiani's Negotiation with Terrorists Ends in Tragedy

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By A A J Katsina 

In a dramatic turn of events, an attempt by General Tiani's regime to negotiate with terrorist groups ended in tragedy. In early May, envoys Amadou Oumarou and Djibo Oldi, under General Tiani's directive, embarked on a mission to engage with terrorist factions in hopes of securing a fragile peace.

The mission began with a meeting at the home of El Hadj Maman, which also included Boureima Barti, a presumed repentant. Following this, the envoys met with Gandou Zankara, a magistrate at the Constitutional Court, who facilitated a critical meeting with Toumba, orchestrated by General Tiani himself.

Two distinct teams were formed to carry out the negotiations. The first team, led by Djibo Oldi, was tasked with meeting terrorist leader Oumarou Djima Kabanado and his associates. The second team, led by Amadou Oumarou, was assigned to engage with warlords Mourtala Macagi, Sadjo Djunna, Ickou Chaifo, and others.

Each team received 6 million CFA francs from General Tiani to cover travel expenses, along with promises of generous financial incentives aimed at persuading the terrorist leaders. Additionally, 2.5 million CFA francs was allocated for the purchase of supplies, including tea, flour, sugar, and oil, intended as a goodwill gesture to the terrorists.

Tragically, the negotiation effort ended in disaster. Five of the six envoys were executed by the terrorists, with only one managing to escape. This failed mission highlights the perilous and often unpredictable nature of attempting to negotiate with terrorist factions, and it further tarnishes the reputation of the current regime, which has already faced significant criticism and unrest.

The outcome underscores the immense challenges and risks involved in seeking peace through negotiation with armed groups, particularly in a volatile and unstable environment. General Tiani's attempt to broker peace has instead resulted in a severe setback, casting a shadow over his regime's legitimacy and future efforts to stabilize the region.
A AJ Katsina is an expert of Niger Republic and public commentator in Nigeria

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