- ECOWAS announces a regional state of emergency due to worsening insecurity
- ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray calls for urgent collective action
- Recent coups and attempts in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau heighten tension
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a regional state of emergency in response to rising political instability and growing security threats across multiple member countries. The announcement was delivered by the 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.
Omar Touray noted that the deteriorating situation in the region requires immediate attention and unified action. He stressed that recent events underscore “the need for deep reflection on the future of our democracy and the urgent necessity to strengthen the security of our community.”
The declaration follows a troubling surge in unconstitutional regime changes in West Africa. In recent years, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau have seen coups or attempted coups, while security forces in Benin and other countries have reported thwarted mutinies. Officials say Tuesday’s meeting was called to evaluate the escalating risks—from military disruptions to violent extremism—and to explore steps to restore stability.
ECOWAS has also come under pressure in recent months, especially after Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their decision to withdraw from the bloc earlier this year.
Further updates are expected as the ministerial council continues its discussions in Abuja.
