ECOWAS Declares State of Emergency in West Africa Amid Rising Insecurity

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency in the region due to a surge in coups, attempted coups, and escalating insecurity. ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray, made the declaration during the 55th Session of the Mediation and Security Council in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital .

The region has been plagued by a series of military takeovers and attempted coups, including in Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Benin Republic has also experienced a botched mutiny, highlighting the growing security challenges in the region. Touray emphasized that the developments underscore the need for “serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community” .

The regional bloc has convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and explore measures to strengthen regional cooperation. ECOWAS leaders have warned that they will use all necessary tools, including the standby force, to protect democratic governments and restore constitutional order where needed .

– “The risk factors are the persistence of military interventions, non-compliance with transition norms, growing erosion of electoral inclusivity, expanding influence of terrorists, armed groups, and criminal networks, and increasing geopolitical pressures affecting member states’ diplomacy and cohesion.” – Omar Touray
– “Let me assure our community citizens that we will not rest on our oars. We will continue to work harder to promote a peaceful, stable, and stronger region for the overall benefit of Community citizens.” – Omar Touray.