The Economic Community of West African States has declared a regional state of emergency as the bloc confronts an unprecedented wave of coups, attempted takeovers, and deepening security crises.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray made the announcement Tuesday during the 55th Mediation and Security Council session in Abuja, describing the situation as a direct threat to peace and democracy across West Africa.
“This underscores the imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community,” Touray said.
The declaration comes after a series of military coups that have rocked the region in recent years.
Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea have all seen their governments overthrown by military officers, while other countries have faced attempted mutinies and growing internal tensions.
These upheavals have fractured ECOWAS itself, with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger withdrawing from the bloc earlier this year to form their own alliance, further weakening regional unity.
Beyond coups, West Africa is battling jihadist insurgencies, banditry, inter-communal violence, and massive displacement of civilians.
The instability has left millions vulnerable and raised fears that democratic gains made over decades are slipping away.
The state of emergency is expected to trigger coordinated action among member states, though details on specific measures remain unclear.
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