The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) recently declared a state of emergency across the region in response to a troubling rise in coups and escalating insecurity among its member states. ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray emphasized the urgent need to address the erosion of democratic principles and to enhance security and constitutional governance.
This declaration follows a series of alarming incidents that threaten political stability, including a coup attempt in Benin on December 7, 2025. A group of soldiers, calling themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation, announced the dissolution of the government and president Patrice Talon’s removal. However, the coup was thwarted by loyal army forces, supported by troops from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, ensuring the government’s continuity.
In Guinea-Bissau, a military coup ousted former President Umaro Embalo amidst a contested election, further illustrating the troubling trend of military interventions in politics. These incidents have raised fears that coups could become normalized in the region.
Analysts believe ECOWAS’s declaration seeks to restore credibility following its lack of action during the Niger crisis in 2023. However, the practical measures that will arise from this declaration remain uncertain. Historically, ECOWAS has navigated crises such as those in Liberia and Sierra Leone without formally declaring emergencies, making this new declaration significant, albeit largely symbolic.
The recent unrest in Benin and Guinea-Bissau highlights the challenges West Africa faces in upholding democratic governance and security. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, urging all involved parties to embrace dialogue and peaceful resolutions to avoid further destabilization in the region.
Leave a comment