Experts Warn That Failure In Niger Could Lead To ECOWAS Dissolution

Academics and stakeholders have sounded a warning that the continued existence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as an organization is at stake if it does not take action to reinstate democratic governance in the Republic of Niger.

This concern arises as experts unite in support of ECOWAS’s deliberation on employing military measures to remove the military junta currently in control of Niger.

During a symposium organized by the Department of History and International Relations at Lagos State University, various speakers expressed their views on Friday.

Dr. Adewunmi Falode, the symposium convener and Head of the Department, highlighted that the event aimed to provide the public with accurate information about the situation in Niger. He emphasized the scholarly and dispassionate nature of their analysis, which would serve as a reliable guide to understanding the developments in the region.

Under the theme, ‘Coup D’état in Niger Republic: National, Regional, and Global Ramifications,’ the scholars argued that it was imperative for ECOWAS to put an end to the potential emergence of military rule in the area.

Dr. Olawale Lawal, a lecturer in the department, expressed his preference for the military option, asserting that ECOWAS’s standby force was well-equipped for the task. He underlined the significance of international organizations relying on diplomatic tools and military options when diplomatic relations fail, and conventions and protocols are disregarded.

“In December 2022, West Africa established a standing military command to address fundamental jihadism and coup d’état. Previous coups occurred before December, while the Niger coup happened afterward. Therefore, Niger serves as the prime example of ECOWAS’s intended use of its newly formed joint army. Despite the combined efforts of Niger’s military and its supporting countries, they are unlikely to overcome ECOWAS’s might.”

Dr. Habeeb Sanni, another lecturer, stressed that ECOWAS must either invoke the military option or face dissolution. He criticized the involvement of the military in politics and deemed the Niger coup contradictory to democratic principles.