The former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo had a recent engagement with the leadership of TPLF, leaders from Oromia, Amhara, Afar regions, and neighboring countries to resolve the high rising conflicts in Ethiopia.
His statement shows optimism about the common ground towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict can be secured. “The interlocutors I have engaged on both sides have stated their wish for peace, security, and stability in Ethiopia.” but emphasized the main point of difference between the actors is the means by which they seek to achieve these essential objectives.
“War represents a failure of politics.”
Thus dialogue remains the only reliable and sustainable avenue to reach. There is no military solution to the conflict and battlefield victory can not guarantee political stability in Ethiopia.
He stated, “leadership of all sides to halt their military offensives, this will allow an opportunity for dialogue to continue to progress. Such talks can not deliver in an environment of escalated military hostilities.”
And a call upon leaders in Africa and the international community to continue to support mediation efforts and to refrain from actions or rhetoric that will worsen the conflict.
“I too remain dedicated to the cause of peace, and we will continue to work towards this goal, without which human security and development cannot be achieved,” he concluded
