Experts Warn ECOWAS Survival Hinges On Niger’s Democracy Restoration

Scholars and stakeholders in Nigeria have voiced concerns that the future existence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) might be at stake if the organization fails to reinstate democracy in the Republic of Niger.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

These sentiments were expressed during a symposium organized by the Department of History and International Relations at Lagos State University (LASU) on August 18….CONTINUE READING

Dr. Adewunmi Falode, the symposium’s organizer and Department Director, emphasized that the event aimed to provide attendees with accurate information about recent developments in Niger. Falode underscored the importance of objective analysis in understanding the situation.

The symposium, titled “Coup D’etat in Niger Republic: National, Regional, and Global Ramifications,” facilitated discussions among scholars and stakeholders, who articulated their concerns regarding the crisis in Niger.

The coup that occurred on July 26, 2023, led to the detention of President Mohamed Bazoum by the country’s presidential guard, with General Abdourahamane Tchiani declaring himself the leader of a new military junta.

Experts at the symposium believe that a failure to restore democracy in Niger could pave the way for military rule to override other West African nations that uphold democratic systems.

As a preventive measure, they urged ECOWAS to employ force to restore democracy in Niger, aiming to deter the spread of military control across the region.

Dr. Olawale Lawal, a lecturer in the department, advocated for a military solution and stressed that ECOWAS’ standby force possesses the capability to address the Niger crisis.

Lawal emphasized that while international organizations typically employ diplomatic tools, deviations from established conventions may warrant military action.

He highlighted ECOWAS’ establishment of a standing military command in December 2022 to combat fundamental extremism and coups, positioning the Niger situation as a test case for the organization’s resolve.