…setup adhoc committee to intervene
By Gloria Ikibah
The Parliament of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stressed the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard democracy, particularly in Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone, where political crises threaten stability.
Members of Parliament who stated this at the closing session of the 2025 First Extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament in Lagos, Nigeria, expressed concerns over the region’s growing instability.
Senator Ndume who underscored the role of leadership in preventing unconstitutional takeovers, warned that ECOWAS, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, is faced with crucial challenge in preventing further instability.
He stated, “There’s no better option than democracy. The problem is in leadership. Military takeovers happen when people lose faith in their government.”
Parliamentarians raised concerns over political tensions in Guinea-Bissau dominated discussions. As the incumbent president’s refusal to step down and conduct elections has raised fears of another coup attempt.
In response, Hon. Billay Tunkara emphasised the importance of parliamentary diplomacy.
“It is high time Parliaments globally advocated for diplomatic solutions. We cannot sit and watch this crisis unfold,” he stated.
The newly formed adhoc committee, comprising representatives from all member states, has been tasked with immediate intervention.
Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina echoed similar sentiments, calling for early warning mechanisms.
“We should not be retroactive but proactive. It’s painful to see countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso out of ECOWAS due to political instability. This was not the dream of our founding fathers,” he lamented.
ECOWAS lawmakers also addressed electoral reforms, reiterating the need for transparency and adherence to good governance protocols signed by member states.
Tunkara pointed out that while ECOWAS Parliament has an advisory role, heads of state must enforce compliance.
“If Guinea-Bissau refuses to heed recommendations, the authority of heads of state must step in,” he warned.
With growing instability, ECOWAS leaders face a defining moment in securing democracy and regional unity.
