Mr Abiy previously branded international efforts to bring the two parties to the table as “unwelcome”, and the AU mission will not be allowed to meet Tigray officials.

After Friday’s meeting with three special AU envoys, Mr Abiy said in a statement that his government was seeking to ensure the protection of civilians, it was opening a humanitarian corridor, and it will welcome back Ethiopian refugees who fled into Sudan. 

The AU envoys – ex-presidents Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa – will not be allowed to travel to Tigray, the government has already said.

Ethiopia’s presidency has thanked the “esteemed African elders” for their “readiness to support”. But it’s not clear how the envoys can accomplish their mission without meeting both sides.

 

In a condolence message to the family of the deceased by the president through his senior media aide Garba Shehu, Buhari described Bali as "an illustrious son and highly decorated retired military officer."

The president, who said he has spoken to Esther, the widow of the deceased, hailed him (Bali) for his "records of bravery and patriotism."

"President Buhari believes the records of bravery and patriotism of Gen. Bali, the Ponzhi Tarok, will continue to inspire young military officers, while the foundation he laid in all the commands he headed will always be remembered."

Buhari said he has also constituted a delegation led by the minister of defence, Maj-Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) to visit the family, and condole with government and people of the state over the loss.- The people of Plateau state have been plunged into mourning