The West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) convened a press conference to address the political and security implications of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s withdrawal from ECOWAS.

The event, themed ”Beyond Borders: Safeguarding Regional Stability After the Exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger,” highlighted concerns over regional integration, security cooperation, and governance challenges.

Experts, including Mr James Ugochukwu and Dr. Joe Nkamuke, stressed the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further fragmentation. They warned that the newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES) could complicate counterterrorism efforts, economic trade, and democratic governance. During the Q&A session, WACSOF was questioned on ECOWAS’s handling of the Niger coup under President Bola Tinubu. Mr. Ugochukwu acknowledged ECOWAS’s challenge in balancing democracy and stability but suggested that a stronger emphasis on diplomacy, mediation, and grassroots engagement could have yielded better results.

Further discussions examined threats to democracy, economic instability, and restrictions on press freedom across West Africa. WACSOF urged ECOWAS to reinforce democratic institutions, strengthen security cooperation, and protect civic freedoms.

The forum concluded with a call for unity and inclusive dialogue, emphasizing that ”West Africa’s strength lies in its unity,” and urging all stakeholders to prioritize regional stability over division.