The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency in the West African region.
The declaration was made known on Tuesday during the 55th session of the mediation and security council, at the ministerial level in Abuja by Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission.
According to him, the developments underlines the “imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community.”
The meeting also discussed growing terrorist threats in the Sahel and the impact of instability on trade and daily life.
ECOWAS leaders warned they will use the bloc’s tools — including the standby force — to protect democratic governments and restore constitutional order where needed.
The regional body condemned attempts to remove elected leaders by force and urged all parties to respect national constitutions and avoid violence.
The emergency declaration signals a tougher stance after years of military takeovers and the creation of a rival group, the Alliance of Sahel States, by some breakaway governments.
ECOWAS leaders said they would step up diplomatic pressure, prepare regional security responses, and coordinate with international partners to limit the spread of coups and extremist violence.
It remains to be seen whether ECOWAS will deploy its standby force to troubled capitals, impose sanctions on coup leaders, and how member governments will respond to a call for collective action to protect democracy and peace across West Africa.
