In Togo, 14 opposition members involved in 2018 protests organized by the
Coalition of 14 Opposition Political Parties (C14) have been sentenced to 10 years
in prison, while four additional accused, currently at large, received 20-year
sentences. Prosecuted on charges including plotting against state security and
criminal conspiracy, the case centered on allegations of a European-based network
planning violent disruptions to block elections. Notably, Aziz Goma was
implicated in coordinating these actions from Europe. Despite collectively denying
the charges, evidence from seized devices purportedly substantiated plans
involving arms procurement and sabotage. The controversial verdict now faces
potential appeals, with defenses possibly taking the matter to regional judicial
bodies such as the ECOWAS Court of Justice.
Author: Tiffany Bright
WACSOF Urges ECOWAS & AES to Prioritize Stability in West Africa
WACSOF acknowledges the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali & Niger from ECOWAS and commends ECOWAS’ efforts to maintain cooperation, free movement & economic ties.
 Calls for dialogue & peaceful coexistence
 Advocates for citizen rights & economic stability
 Urges civil society to foster regional unity
A stable West Africa is a prosperous one!
 Calls for dialogue & peaceful coexistence
 Advocates for citizen rights & economic stability
 Urges civil society to foster regional unity
A stable West Africa is a prosperous one!
WACSOF Calls for Stability and Dialogue as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Exit ECOWAS
The West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) has urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to prioritize political stability, peace, and development following the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS, effective January 29, 2025.
In a statement issued today, WACSOF acknowledged the regional bloc’s response to the departure, commending ECOWAS for taking measures to maintain cooperation and stability despite the geopolitical shift. The organization highlighted several key aspects of ECOWAS’ approach, including the continued recognition of national identity documents, the preservation of trade and economic relations, and the retention of free movement rights for citizens of the three departing nations.
According to WACSOF, these steps demonstrate ECOWAS’ commitment to regional integration while mitigating the socio-economic disruptions that could arise from the withdrawal. The civil society forum particularly praised ECOWAS for establishing a dialogue framework with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to define future relations, reinforcing the spirit of diplomacy and cooperation.
A Call for Collective ActionWhile acknowledging ECOWAS’ efforts, WACSOF called on all stakeholders—including governments, civil society organizations, and regional institutions—to actively support diplomatic engagement and promote mechanisms that prevent political instability. The group emphasized the importance of using the available six-month transition period to resolve differences and work towards a unified regional bloc.
WACSOF reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace and development across West Africa, pledging to engage with ECOWAS and relevant actors to ensure that the interests of the people remain at the forefront of regional decision-making.
As West Africa navigates this pivotal moment, the role of civil society in bridging gaps and fostering inclusive dialogue will be crucial in shaping the future of regional cooperation.
Three Arrested in Connection with Child Trafficking Network in Ouagadougou
On Monday, February 3, 2025, three individuals were arrested at the Ouaga-inter
bus station for their alleged involvement in a child trafficking network. Thirteen
victims, aged between 14 and 19, were identified. These victims, hailing from rural
areas, had been lured by false promises of employment abroad. Thanks to
cooperation among various authorities, the Ouagadougou Municipal Police
successfully apprehended the suspects and handed them over to the appropriate
child protection authorities. The victims are being provided with necessary support
and care. The Municipal Police of Ouagadougou urges parents to be more vigilant
in monitoring and educating their children to prevent such criminal acts. They also
thanked the public for their collaboration and reaffirmed their commitment to
combat child trafficking and protect minors’s rights.