The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has placed the sub-region under a state of emergency following a surge in political upheavals and security risks threatening democratic governance.
The decision was announced by President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level in Abuja on Tuesday. The high-level meeting brought together regional leaders to examine the fragile security and political climate facing several member states.
Mr Touray warned that West Africa is at a critical crossroads, stressing that the region can no longer ignore the growing pattern of instability. He said recent events demand collective responsibility, deeper reflection, and decisive regional action to safeguard democracy.
He noted that repeated unconstitutional changes of government across the sub-region underscore the urgent need to re-evaluate democratic systems and significantly strengthen regional security cooperation.
In recent years, a number of West African countries—including Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea-Bissau—have experienced coups or attempted military takeovers. Elsewhere, security services in countries such as Benin have reported thwarting attempted mutinies, highlighting the widespread nature of the threat.
ECOWAS officials explained that Tuesday’s meeting was convened to assess the combined dangers of military interventions, violent extremism, and cross-border insecurity, while also identifying strategies that could help restore stability and constitutional order.
The emergency declaration comes at a challenging time for the regional bloc, which has come under increased scrutiny following the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Fas,o and Niger earlier this year. Their exit has raised concerns about unity, influence, and the future effectiveness of ECOWAS.
Deliberations by the Mediation and Security Council are ongoing, with further announcements expected as discussions continue in Abuja.
