The Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has entertained fear over military coups in West Africa, adding that it threatens democratic gains warning that unconstitutional changes endanger the region’s democratic progress and overall stability.
Penpushing reports that Tinubu expressed this concern while speaking at the official launch of the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) Golden Jubilee held in Accra, Ghana.
The President, represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, just as he referred to the resurgence of military rule in the region since 2021.
‘The fundamental principles that bind us: democracy, the rule of law, good governance, and regional solidarity. These are not just ideals; they are the foundations for peace, development, and the dignity of our people,” he said,
Penpushing further reports that he called for renewed commitment to fostering unity and solidarity among member states. describing the jubilee celebrations as a new chapter for the bloc while noting that member states must be willing to reconcile with the junta-led countries that pulled out
“It is a time to strengthen the bonds that tie us together through shared values, collective responsibility, and a common vision for a prosperous region. In hopes of reconciliation and reintegration, we must remain open and willing to engage in sustained, constructive dialogue with our estranged brothers, those Member States currently outside our fold’, he added.
“At the same time, there is an urgent need to implement bold, comprehensive reforms that will enhance our institutions’ effectiveness, relevance, and credibility to meet the challenges of today and the future’, Tinubu stated.
Penpushing also reports that record has it that between August 2020 and August 2024, West and Central Africa experienced about nine coup attempts, four of which led to the military successfully taking over power in four West African Countries which include Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Niger.
The Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) had condemned each coup, suspended offending members from the bloc’s institutions, and enforced targeted sanctions to pressure juntas back toward civilian rule.
Penpushing reports that this, however, created tension and eventually led to the official exit of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso and they announced formation of an economic pact known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The junta in all three nations had accused Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) of failing to support them in their fight against terrorism and of imposing sanctions that they claim harmed their populations.
Penpushing further reports that the countries in same vein rejected 50-year-old Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS)’ request to reconsider their decision to leave the bloc.
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