The New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) has issued a stern warning to the federal government against entering into any defence pact with either the French or American governments, citing potential adverse effects on Nigeria. Ladipo Johnson, the party's National Publicity Secretary, expressed concerns that such agreements could lead to internal unrest and strain relations with neighbouring Sahelian countries.
The NNPP argued that previous defence pacts with foreign powers had not achieved their intended goals and pointed out recent expulsions of French and American soldiers from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The party highlighted the strategic importance of Nigeria in the Gulf of Guinea, suggesting that these countries may be seeking to establish a military presence in Nigeria.
Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, the NNPP's National Chairman, commissioned a team of researchers to investigate the matter, considering the widespread alarm and calls for caution from various quarters. The party emphasized Nigeria's historical resistance to foreign military bases since the abrogation of the Anglo-Nigerian defence pact in the 1960s.
The NNPP urged the government to consider the potential negative impacts on regional relationships, bilateral ties, and national sovereignty before entering into any defence pact. It cautioned that such agreements could worsen Nigeria's economic situation and fail to effectively combat terrorism in the Sahel region.
In conclusion, the NNPP advised the federal government to approach any defence pact negotiations with France or the United States with extreme caution, prioritizing Nigeria's long-term interests and sovereignty.
