The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Tuesday declared a state of emergency across the region as instability continues to spread through parts of the sub-continent.
The announcement was made by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, at the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level in Abuja.
The high-level meeting was convened in response to the rising wave of coups and failed mutinies that have unsettled several member states in recent months.
Touray said the unfolding developments underscore the gravity of the situation and the urgency for collective action.
He noted that the challenges confronting the region demand a renewed commitment to safeguarding democratic governance and strengthening security frameworks.
Touray said the developments highlight the “imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community”.