ECOWAS declares State of Emergency as coups spread across West Africa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency across the region in response to the growing wave of coups and attempted mutinies threatening political stability in West Africa.

The declaration was announced by ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray, during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level, held in Abuja on December 9, 2025.

Touray highlighted that these events underscore the urgent need for reflection on the future of democracy in the sub-region and for increased investment in regional security.

Touray said the developments highlight the “imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community”.

The declaration follows heightened instability, including a thwarted coup attempt in Benin just days earlier.

More details to follow…