Bashir Ahmad, a former social media aide to President Muhammadu Buhari, has reacted to the coup in Gabon following an alleged fraudulent presidential election.
OsunDailyNG earlier reported that the Gabonese President, Ali Bongo, was deposed by the military days after winning Saturday’s presidential election.
Some senior military officers appeared on Gabonese national television in Gabon to announce that they had taken power and the dissolution of all democratic institutions in the country.
The military also announced the annulment of Saturday’s election and the dissolution of the democratic government in the country.
Reacting to the development in a Twitter post on Wednesday morning, Ahmad said it is disheartening that Africa finds itself facing the resurgence of political instability following a fresh coup in Gabon.
He said while Africa is simultaneously grappling with the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic, Burkina Faso and other nations, the pursuit of progress is being tested.
The former presidential aide added that the recent coup in Gabon serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of political transitions in Africa, adding that such coup incidents raise concerns about the continuity of progress in Africa.
He wrote: “In a disheartening turn of events, Africa finds itself facing the resurgence of political instability as a fresh coup d’état unfolds in Gabon, while simultaneously grappling with the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic, Burkina Faso and elsewhere. The continent’s pursuit of progress is being tested as leaders and citizens alike seek to navigate these tumultuous times.
“The recent coup d’état in Gabon serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of political transitions in Africa. As nations strive to establish democratic institutions and foster stable governance, such incidents raise concerns about the continuity of progress. In the face of this setback, the resolve of African nations to promote peaceful solutions and uphold democratic values is more crucial than ever.
“Adding to this complex scenario is the ongoing crisis in Niger Republic and similar challenges faced by neighbouring countries. These circumstances highlight the interconnectedness of issues across borders, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation and collaborative efforts to find lasting solutions. The people of Africa deserve stability, security, and the opportunity to thrive in an environment free from the shadow of political turmoil.
“While the road ahead may seem daunting, it’s important to recognize the resilience of African nations. History has shown that Africa can overcome adversity and work towards positive change. By embracing dialogue, diplomacy, and unity, leaders and citizens can collectively address the root causes of these crises and pave the way for a brighter future.
“In these critical times, Africa stands at a crossroads — a moment where the continent’s strength and determination are tested. By addressing the challenges head-on and fostering an environment of collaboration, Africa can move towards a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all its nations.”
