The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency across the sub-region following a surge in military coups, attempted mutinies, and growing political instability.
The declaration was announced on Tuesday by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, during the 55th session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level, held in Abuja.
Touray said the decision was taken in response to what he described as unprecedented security and political challenges confronting West Africa, warning that the resurgence of unconstitutional takeovers poses a serious threat to democratic governance in the region.
“Our region is facing an alarming wave of coups and attempted mutinies that undermine constitutional order and regional stability. This situation calls for a coordinated and urgent collective response,” Touray told ministers and security officials at the meeting.
The ECOWAS chief noted that the declaration reflects the bloc’s deep concern over worsening security conditions, rising political tensions, and democratic reversals in several member states.
Ministers of defence, foreign affairs, and security chiefs from across the region convened at the session to review the evolving situation and consider measures aimed at strengthening intelligence sharing, diplomatic engagement, and regional security cooperation.
Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to the restoration of democratic governance through dialogue, the application of sanctions where necessary, and the activation of regional security mechanisms to deter further unconstitutional changes of government.
He added that more details regarding the scope and operational implications of the declared state of emergency would emerge after ongoing deliberations by the Mediation and Security Council.
The meeting comes at a time when West Africa continues to grapple with political uncertainty and security threats, raising fresh concerns about the resilience of democratic institutions across the region.