Academics and stakeholders have raised concerns over the possible dissolution of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) if it fails to take action to reinstate democratic governance in the Republic of Niger. These concerns come as they express support for ECOWAS’s decision to explore military options to remove the military junta that has seized power in Niger.
At a symposium organized by the Department of History and International Relations at Lagos State University, speakers emphasized the need for ECOWAS to prevent the establishment of a trend of military rule in the region.
Dr. Adewunmi Falode, the symposium’s convener and Head of Department, stated that the event aimed to provide accurate information to the public about the situation in Niger. He emphasized the importance of basing discussions on facts rather than emotions.
Under the theme “Coup D’etat in Niger Republic: National, Regional and Global Ramifications,” scholars highlighted the urgency of ECOWAS’s response to prevent the consolidation of military rule.
Dr. Olawale Lawal, a lecturer at the department, endorsed the military option, suggesting that the ECOWAS standby force was capable of addressing the situation. He explained that international organizations employ diplomatic tools to address conflicts but resort to military options when diplomatic efforts fail to uphold conventions and protocols.
Dr. Habeeb Sanni, another lecturer, asserted that ECOWAS must invoke the military option to restore democracy or risk its own existence. He emphasized that the military should not be involved in politics and that the Niger coup contradicts democratic principles.
Dr. Henry Ogunjewo from the University of Lagos warned that if ECOWAS fails to take action, it remains uncertain which country might experience a similar fate in the absence of decisive intervention.
The symposium’s discussions underscore the critical juncture at which ECOWAS finds itself, facing the challenge of safeguarding democratic governance and regional stability in the face of military coups.