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The recent withdrawal of Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s security. The three countries cited illegal and inhumane sanctions imposed on them following coups as the reason for their withdrawal. They also expressed concerns about ECOWAS’s divergence from its founding principles and influence from foreign powers. The withdrawal comes amid allegations of infiltration and interference from Western powers, especially the United States and Russia.
Before their withdrawal, the three countries were suspended from ECOWAS and were facing heavy sanctions. In a joint statement, the military leaders of the three nations described the decision to leave ECOWAS as a “sovereign decision.” They accused ECOWAS of failing to provide assistance in their fight against terrorism and insecurity and of adopting an irrational and unacceptable posture by imposing illegal and illegitimate sanctions.
The withdrawal of the three countries has raised concerns about security in the region. France has removed ambassadors and troops from the region, allowing Russia to fill the void militarily and politically. The French army’s withdrawal from the Sahel has heightened concerns over conflicts spreading to the Gulf of Guinea states. Niger, known for its production of uranium, is a strategic partner in the fight against insurgency and terrorism in the Sahel.
Many stakeholders believe that Nigeria and the West African bloc will be the greatest losers in this impasse. They have criticized the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS for its inability to resolve the crisis. ECOWAS, currently led by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, said it had yet to receive any formal notification of withdrawal from the three member states.
The Nigerian government expressed sadness over the withdrawal and stated that it remains open to engagement with the withdrawing countries. Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar expressed concern over Nigeria’s security and described the situation as a serious diplomatic meltdown.
Overall, the withdrawal of Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s security and the ability of the West African bloc to address security challenges in the region. The influence of foreign powers, especially the United States and Russia, and the lack of assistance from ECOWAS in tackling terrorism and insecurity were cited as reasons for the withdrawal. The withdrawal also raises questions about the future of regional cooperation and integration in West Africa.
The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has raised concerns among Nigerian politicians and experts. Former Vice President Atiku emphasized the need for Nigeria to secure its national security interests amidst the diplomatic fallout caused by the withdrawals.
Senator Shehu Sani stated that this development signifies the failure of diplomacy, with Nigeria losing its African allies due to its relations with Western countries.
Former Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Bolaji Akinyemi warned that ECOWAS is becoming a battlefield between Russia and the USA and called for Nigeria to demand that Russia cease its intervention in the region.
Dr. Michael Ugwueze, a senior lecturer at the University of Nigeria, highlighted the potential impact of the withdrawals on ECOWAS, noting that the leadership styles in the region have given military forces the impetus to take over power.
He also pointed out that Nigeria’s withdrawal from ECOWAS would significantly weaken the organization, and advised both Nigeria and ECOWAS to prioritize good governance and the welfare of their citizens.
Comrade Isaiah Adanu, a security manager, expressed concern that the military in Nigeria may take inspiration from the actions of their counterparts in the other countries. He called for increased dialogue and cooperation among ECOWAS members and for Nigeria and ECOWAS to focus on good governance and combating corruption.
Overall, these Nigerian politicians and experts are sounding the alarm about the potential consequences of the withdrawals on regional stability, democracy, and security.
