ECOWAS Leaders Urged to Prioritize Citizens’ Welfare

• WADEMOS calls for ECOWAS leaders to focus on citizens’ welfare and regional security in post-exit dialogue with departing nations
• The organization emphasizes the need for inclusive solutions and a review of ECOWAS’ treaty to address evolving political challenges

The West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS) has called on leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to focus on citizens’ welfare and regional security in their planned post-exit dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

In a statement on Sunday in Abuja, WADEMOS’ Regional Advocacy Officer and ECOWAS Liaison Lead, Mr. Austin Aigbe, stressed the need for dialogue with the three nations following their recent decision to sever ties with ECOWAS by signing the Liptako-Gourma Charter on January 29, 2024.

WADEMOS urged both ECOWAS and the departing nations to engage in sustained discussions that prioritize the interests of citizens and the region’s security.

The network emphasized the importance of inclusive solutions that safeguard the well-being of millions across West Africa.

Additionally, WADEMOS called for a review of ECOWAS’ treaty and operational frameworks to align with the region’s evolving political and security challenges.

According to the statement, this review should include strengthening ECOWAS’ citizen-focused organ, ECOSOC, to maintain its connection with the people it serves.

“We commend ongoing efforts to establish ECOSOC and urge ECOWAS to expedite its formation, as it remains the only unconstituted organ. The future and sustainability of ECOWAS depend largely on its engagement with citizens,” the statement read.

The network also recommended revising ECOWAS’ sanction regime, particularly concerning Unconstitutional Changes of Government (UCG), to promote democratic governance, strengthen institutions, and address youth-related challenges in the region.

WADEMOS encouraged the AES states to reconsider their exit decision, highlighting the economic and security benefits of remaining within ECOWAS.

While acknowledging national sovereignty and the fight against neo-colonialism, the network warned that leaving ECOWAS could weaken economic and security advantages for the region’s people.

It also urged the AES states to use the six-month transition window provided by ECOWAS, emphasizing that dialogue and negotiation remain the best path forward.