CISLAC, WACSOF, TMG Advocate Dialogue to Prevent ECOWAS Disintegration

From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), and Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) are calling for dialogue to avert the disintegration of ECOWAS member states and ensure the swift restoration of democratic rule in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.

Expressing concern over recent events surrounding the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the announced withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the regional community, the groups condemned military rule and emphasized the importance of constitutional measures.

In a joint press statement signed by Mallam Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC; Kop’ep Dabugat, General Secretary of WACSOF; and Najaatu Mohammed of TMG, the organizations highlighted the achievements of regional integration and urged reflection on collective milestones.

The statement emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy, especially as the region discusses a single market to boost trade and development. The groups called on the authorities of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to reconsider their withdrawal decisions for the collective benefits of the region.

CISLAC, TMG, and WACSOF urged state and non-state actors to intensify engagements for a more united ECOWAS. They called on military authorities in the affected countries to implement workable transition plans, outlining a clear return to civil rule and a prompt restoration of democratic order.

The statement emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the transition process. It urged the authorities in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso to prioritize free, fair, and credible elections to restore trust in democratic processes.

Additionally, the organizations called on the people of the affected countries to actively participate in the transition programs and contribute to the return to democracy.

CISLAC, WACSOF, and TMG also urged the leadership of ECOWAS and all West African countries to lift sanctions imposed on the Republic of Niger and other affected nations, considering the impact on vulnerable groups.

They emphasized the importance of mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs, emphasizing the need for a more integrated ECOWAS to address trans-border insecurity.

The statement re-emphasized the role of continued dialogue and civil engagement for democratic stability in the region.