The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Tuesday declared a state of emergency across the region, citing growing security and political challenges threatening stability in its member states.
The announcement was made by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the bloc’s Mediation and Security Council, held at ministerial level in Abuja, Nigeria.
Touray said the developments underscored “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 comes amid rising concerns over political instability, governance challenges and violent conflicts in several West African countries, including coups, insurgencies and cross-border criminal activities that have strained regional security mechanisms.
ECOWAS, a 15-member bloc, has traditionally played a leading role in mediating political crises, supporting democratic transitions, and coordinating regional security initiatives. The state of emergency gives the organisation a mandate to intensify coordination among member states, strengthen early-warning systems, and mobilise resources to address security threats.
While Touray did not provide details on specific interventions, the declaration signals that ECOWAS intends to take stronger measures to prevent further deterioration of democratic governance and to support member states facing security challenges.
Recent coups in the ECOWAS Region
The West African region has in recent years witnessed a string of military coups, insurgent attacks in the Sahel, and rising criminal networks, prompting concerns from both regional bodies and international partners. ECOWAS has repeatedly warned that such threats jeopardise democratic norms and regional integration objectives.
The commission’s decision is expected to be followed by a series of consultations with member states to coordinate political and security strategies, strengthen border security, and enhance support for democratic institutions.
The move reflects ECOWAS’s ongoing commitment to maintaining stability, protecting civilian populations, and safeguarding democratic governance in a region facing multifaceted challenges.
