Stakeholders have expressed deep concern over the recent withdrawal of Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), describing it as troubling and raising serious worries about Nigeria’s security. The move follows allegations of interference from Western powers, particularly the United States and Russia, with a significant presence of Wagner Brothers fighters in the region.
Reportedly, on Sunday, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso declared their withdrawal from ECOWAS, citing what they deemed as illegal and inhumane sanctions imposed on them due to coups in their respective countries. The three nations informed ECOWAS, the African Union (AU), and the United Nations about their withdrawal, citing concerns about ECOWAS deviating from its founding principles and being influenced by foreign powers.
Previously suspended from ECOWAS and facing heavy sanctions, the military leaders of these countries issued a joint statement emphasizing their sovereign decision to leave ECOWAS promptly. They criticized ECOWAS for allegedly betraying its founding principles, not assisting in the fight against terrorism, and imposing unjust sanctions. The military leaders also accused ECOWAS of failing to support them against jihadist threats that originated in Mali and spread to Burkina Faso and Niger.
The withdrawal occurred amidst France’s withdrawal from the Sahel region, leaving room for Russia’s increased military and political influence. Concerns are rising over the potential spread of conflicts to Gulf of Guinea states, including Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Ivory Coast.
While some stakeholders believe that Nigeria and the West African bloc stand to lose the most in this situation, others have criticized the inability of ECOWAS, led by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, to resolve the crisis. The 15-nation ECOWAS, established in 1975 to promote economic integration, has faced challenges in preventing coups and ensuring citizen benefits from natural resources.
ECOWAS, currently led by President Bola Tinubu, stated on Sunday that it had not received any formal notification of withdrawal from the three member states. The ECOWAS Commission asserted its commitment to restoring constitutional order in the withdrawing countries and maintaining a negotiated solution to their political crises.
However, the Nigerian government expressed sadness over the announcement, stating that ECOWAS has worked to promote peace and prosperity in the region. Nigeria emphasized its sincere efforts to resolve difficulties within the ECOWAS family and called for continued international support for the organization.
Several political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Senator Shehu Sani, expressed concern over the security implications for Nigeria. Atiku called for a focus on national security interests amid the diplomatic challenges, while Sani highlighted the severity of the setback for West Africa, attributing it to the failure of diplomacy and dialogue.
Former Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Bolaji Akinyemi observed that ECOWAS has become a battleground between Russia and the USA, urging Nigeria to play a role in halting Russian intervention. He emphasized the complex nature of the situation and the need for diplomatic efforts to address the confrontation between Russia and NATO.
Dr. Michael Ugwueze, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Nigeria, expressed serious concern about the development, emphasizing the potential impact on ECOWAS and the encouragement of military takeovers. He urged ECOWAS to reflect on the challenges to democracy within the region.
Private security manager Comrade Isaiah Adanu highlighted the risk of the Nigerian military taking inspiration from neighboring countries and advised prioritizing good governance to prevent unrest.
In summary, the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS has sparked concerns about regional stability, security, and the effectiveness of the organization in addressing political crises. The situation underscores the challenges faced by ECOWAS in promoting democracy and preventing military takeovers in member states.