Atiku calls for understanding root causes of African coups

Former vice-president Atiku Abubakar has advised African leaders to prioritize understanding the root causes behind the recent rise in coup attempts across the continent.

Atiku’s advise follows a recent coup in Gabon.

The coup in Gabon brings the total to eight in Africa since 2020.

He said the military takeovers are worrisome, adding that they call for introspection.

“The coup in Gabon stands condemned.

“Democracy and democratic governance have come to stay as a preferred form of government, and everything should be done to enthrone, nurture, and sustain it.

“As I suggested in the case of the Niger Republic, the ECOWAS and African Union authorities should open a window of diplomatic engagement that will pave the way for the soldiers to return to the barracks.

“The latest coup brings the number of military takeovers in Central and West Africa to 8 since 2020. This is worrisome and calls for introspection.

“We may have to focus on dealing with the disease and not the symptoms that birth coups,” he tweeted.

The PDP flag bearer added that, ” As I suggested in the case of the Niger Republic, the ECOWAS and African Union authorities should open a window of diplomatic engagement that will pave the way for the soldiers to return to the barracks.”