The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency in the region, citing the string of coups and botched mutinies in recent times.
ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray made the declaration during the 55th session of the mediation and security council in Abuja, emphasizing the need for serious introspection on the future of democracy and urgent investment in regional security.
The declaration comes as Guinea, Benin, Gambia, and Cape Verde prepare to conduct elections, with Touray pointing to elections as a major trigger of instability in the region.
ECOWAS is also negotiating with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on security cooperation amidst terrorist threats along borders.
