Academics and stakeholders have raised concerns that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) might dissolve if it doesn’t restore democratic governance in Niger. They expressed support for ECOWAS’s consideration of military interventions to remove the military junta in power.
During a symposium held by the Lagos State University’s Department of History and International Relations, speakers emphasized the need to inform the public about the situation in Niger. Dr. Adewunmi Falode, the symposium’s organizer, emphasized their commitment to objective analysis based on facts, not emotions.
Addressing the theme “Coup D’etat in Niger Republic: National, Regional and Global Ramifications,” scholars argued that ECOWAS must prevent a trend of military rule in the region. Dr. Olawale Lawal, a lecturer, supported the military option, highlighting the ECOWAS standby force’s capability for such actions. He stressed the use of diplomatic tools by international organizations, but noted that military options become necessary if conventions are violated.
Dr. Habeeb Sanni, another lecturer, asserted that ECOWAS must choose the military option to preserve its existence, given that the military’s involvement in politics contradicts democratic principles. Dr. Henry Ogunjewo from the University of Lagos warned about the potential domino effect on other countries if ECOWAS doesn’t take action.