The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a regional state of emergency, warning of escalating political instability and mounting security threats across several member states.
The announcement was made Tuesday by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level in Abuja.
Touray stressed that the worsening situation in the sub-region requires “urgent attention and collective action,” adding that recent developments underscore the “imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community.”
The declaration follows a troubling wave of unconstitutional takeovers in West Africa. In recent years, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau have witnessed coups or attempted coups, while security agencies in Benin and other states have reported foiled mutinies.
Officials say Tuesday’s meeting was convened to assess the growing threats ranging from military interventions to violent extremism and to consider measures aimed at stabilising the region.
The bloc has faced mounting criticism in recent months, particularly after Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS earlier this year. Analysts warn that the departures weaken regional solidarity at a time when collective security is most needed.
Deliberations at the ministerial council in Abuja are expected to continue, with further updates anticipated as ECOWAS weighs its response to the crisis.
