Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has criticized the decision by ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) to deploy a standby force for a potential intervention in Niger following a recent coup.
Obasanjo argued that ECOWAS should have taken a more diplomatic approach and issued a statement aimed at ameliorating the situation, rather than coming across as confrontational.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 15th African Youth and Governance Convergence in Ghana, Obasanjo discussed the recent wave of coups in the ECOWAS sub-region, including Niger.
He recalled his past advice to Ghana’s General Akuffo, cautioning against using military intervention to restore constitutionality during a coup, suggesting it is not always the right approach.
Obasanjo stressed that the prevalence of coups in the region is a manifestation of deeper, unresolved issues within African societies.
He questioned the understanding of independence among some leaders, highlighting that it requires significant sacrifices to improve economic conditions rather than simply expecting prosperity.
He expressed doubt about the meaningful contributions of African economies despite years of independence.
Obasanjo also addressed the phenomenon of citizens supporting recent coups due to frustration and desperation, emphasizing the potential consequences of ignoring public sentiment.
Regarding the spread of private military companies like Wagner from Russia operating in Africa, Obasanjo labeled them as a major threat that needs to be addressed.
Obasanjo praised the Youth Bridge Foundation for fostering a platform for leadership development and encouraged African youth to adopt organized approaches to governance issues to effectively voice their concerns.
In response to criticisms of ECOWAS’s decision for military intervention, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, staunchly defended the organization’s stance.
He highlighted the gravity of the situation in Niger and affirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The Extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff convened in Accra aimed to develop an intervention plan for Niger, subject to approval from ECOWAS leaders.
Ambassador Musah asserted that if diplomatic efforts prove ineffective, the standby force is prepared to act decisively while prioritizing regional stability.
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