‘When You Rig Yourself Into Power In An Election, It’s Also A Coup’ – Ibrahim Mai Sule

Ibrahim Mai Sule, a former Nigerian ambassador to Indonesia, claims that a coup does not always relate to a military takeover of power. Sule stated in an interview with Arise TV news that when a President manipulates the electoral process to secure their position, it can also be deemed a coup.

He underlined the importance of exercising caution when dealing with politicians that cling to power, since they frequently go beyond constitutional limitations. Sule further emphasized the troubling trend of these leaders considering themselves as infallible while disregarding the views of others.

He voiced concern that such activities could lead to the country being drawn into a proxy war.

He said, ”The basic issue is that one has to be extremely careful with these sit-tight leaders. Because a Coup is not only the idea of military taking over the government. A Coup is actually when people extend their limit beyond what is constitutionally being provided.

When you rig yourself into power in an election, it’s also a coup. Basically, the problem with these leaders is that I’m right and everybody is wrong. One has to look at the things they are doing. And my fear is that they should not take us into a proxy war.”

He further said, ”I know that some Organisations have already made their position known. First, we have to open back the border and then restore the power supply of Niger. Because this issue of power supply is going to affect us, if Niger continues with their dam project, it’s going to affect Jebba Dam in Nigeria. And definitely, it is going to bring down the power generation of the entire country.

And who is going to be the loser, is it Nigeria or Ecowas? So obviously as soon as you go on with diplomatic discussion, there is going to be a way the two of them will come together.”

Sule stressed the importance of understanding that a coup extends beyond military intervention. According to him, when a President rigs an election to secure their position, it is tantamount to seizing power unlawfully.

He urged vigilance in dealing with leaders who exhibit a sit-tight mentality, as they tend to overstep constitutional boundaries. Sule’s concern lies in the fact that these leaders often believe they are always right, disregarding the perspectives of others. He cautioned against the potential consequences of such behavior, warning against the country being dragged into a proxy war.