The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced a state of emergency across the West African sub-region following a surge in coups, attempted mutinies, and escalating political instability.
The declaration was made on December 9, 2025, by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level, held in Abuja.
Touray warned that the wave of disruptions to democratic governance most recently a foiled coup attempt in Benin reflects a troubling pattern that threatens regional peace and security. He stressed that the unfolding events demand urgent introspection on the state of democracy in West Africa and stronger investment in collective security systems.
According to him, the bloc can no longer ignore the recurring breakdowns in civil-military relations and the expanding influence of non-state armed groups. He urged member states to reinforce cooperation, intelligence sharing, and preventive diplomacy to safeguard constitutional order.
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ECOWAS’ emergency declaration marks one of its most significant responses to political instability in recent years, underscoring deep concern over the fragility of democratic institutions across the region.