Defence chiefs from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach, encompassing political, diplomatic, and security dimensions, in addressing the recent coup in Niger Republic.
Concluding a three-day Extraordinary Meeting in Abuja, the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CDS) commended ECOWAS’s unwavering commitment to democracy and confirmed the resolute support of member countries’ militaries for this stance.
General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff and President of the committee, lauded ECOWAS’s stand for democracy and stressed the gravity of the situation in Niger, highlighting the necessity for a well-coordinated response.
“Our discussions have produced valuable insights and actionable recommendations,” Musa stated, underscoring the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses political, security, and diplomatic aspects.
Musa affirmed, “Democracy is our core value, and we are dedicated to its preservation.”
The military chiefs unanimously agreed that there is no alternative to democratic principles and the rule of law in the region.
They deplored the coup in Niger as a blatant violation of the fundamental principles crucial for regional stability and integration.
Countries including Togo, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Nigeria, Liberia, Guinea Bissau, Ghana, Gambia, Cote D’ivoire, Cape Verde, and Benin were represented at the meeting, while Niger, Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso were notably absent.
The ECOWAS defence chiefs’ resolute stance underscores the commitment to upholding democratic values in the face of challenges.
