In a resounding address at the 64th ordinary session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Tinubu, who currently chairs the ECOWAS Authority, urged West African leaders to prioritize good governance as a crucial measure to thwart authoritarian takeovers and unconstitutional changes of government in the region.
According to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu emphasized the pivotal role of good governance in securing popular support for socio-economic transformation and development in West Africa. He stated, “The delivery of good governance is not just a fundamental commitment; it is also an avenue to address the concerns of our citizens, to improve their quality of life, and create a stable environment conducive to the achievement of sustainable development.”
Highlighting the importance of addressing root causes, particularly poverty and inequality, President Tinubu asserted that providing good governance would mitigate the risk of military interventions in civilian processes. He commended the collective efforts of West African leaders in strengthening democratic achievements and outlined specific measures against any member state opting for unconstitutional changes of government.
“While the imposition of punitive sanctions may pose challenges, it is important to underscore that the struggle to protect the fundamental liberties of our Community’s Citizens must be upheld and respected,” the President emphasized. He further advocated for re-engaging with countries under military rule based on realistic and short transition plans, offering technical and material support to achieve democratic and governance goals.
President Tinubu also acknowledged exemplary leadership, applauding President George Weah of Liberia for conceding victory and congratulating his opponent in the last presidential election. He urged leaders to emulate such conduct, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic ideals.
Responding to the creation of the ‘Alliance of Sahel States’ by some ECOWAS-member states under military rule, President Tinubu dismissed it as distracting and reaffirmed the commitment to ECOWAS integration. He emphasized that the alliance was an attempt to divert attention from the shared belief in democracy and good governance.
Despite acknowledging challenges, President Tinubu stressed ECOWAS’ significant milestones for the betterment of the community, emphasizing a focus on qualitative service delivery and good governance to raise living standards.
Regarding recent disturbances in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau, the ECOWAS Chairman called on fellow leaders to protect democracy, reiterating ECOWAS’ zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. He expressed solidarity with the re-elected president of Sierra Leone and affirmed the commitment to supporting democratically elected governments.
President Tinubu urged leaders to stand firm and remain committed in the face of challenges, declaring, “Without let or hindrance, democracy will win if we fight for it, and we will definitely fight for democracy.”
