The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had issued a directive for member states' military forces to be on standby, raising concerns about a possible military intervention in Niger Republic.
The demonstrators, who gathered on Saturday, expressed their dissatisfaction with the prospect of a military invasion in Niger. Chanting slogans and moving in procession, they conveyed their message of solidarity with the Nigerien people.
Their chants included phrases such as "Nigeriens are our brothers, Nigeriens are also our family," and "Niger is ours, we don't want war."
During the protest, the participants prominently displayed both the Nigerian and Nigerien flags, symbolising their shared identity and unity. Placards with anti-war messages were held aloft, underscoring their plea for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The protesters were adamant that any military action against Niger would be unjust and a result of external influences.
The demonstration comes in response to growing concerns voiced by various groups, particularly from Northern Nigeria, who emphasise the close historical, cultural, and geographical ties between the two nations. The sentiment among these demonstrators reflects a desire to maintain a peaceful and cooperative approach to addressing the crisis in Niger.
As tensions remain high and discussions continue on how to address the situation in Niger, the voices of these protesters add to the broader conversation about the potential implications of military intervention and the importance of seeking peaceful solutions to regional challenges.