ECOWAS Leaders Push for Stronger Regional Action to Protect Democracy, Rule of Law

West African leaders have urged member states to take decisive, collective action to confront rising threats to democracy and the rule of law across the region.

Speaking in Abuja at an event marking the 25th anniversary of the ECOWAS Parliament, the leaders warned that the bloc’s stability could be at risk if current challenges persist.

Sierra Leone’s President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Julius Bio, highlighted ECOWAS’ long-standing contributions to peace-building, regional cooperation, security, migration management, and human rights. He noted that Sierra Leone had greatly benefited from these efforts.

Bio, represented by Foreign Minister Timothy Kabba, stressed the need for urgent, coordinated efforts to safeguard democratic values.

“Member states must rise up and take drastic action by fighting tooth and nail to arrest the current threats to democracy in the sub-region,” he said.

“The challenges before us demand an ECOWAS Parliament to raise a voice and give managerial accommodation. Together, let us reaffirm the commitments our people have made so far and the opportunities that remain.

“ECOWAS Parliament has consistently demonstrated that collaboration is not just desirable, it is indispensable for the progress and stability of our nation. As we mark this important milestone, let us also renew our resolve to build on the achievements of the past 25 years.”

President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, also called on the Parliament to reinforce its role in protecting democratic governance. He said the silver jubilee should inspire renewed commitment to a future where democracy, the rule of law, and human rights are the norm.

“We must therefore fight for democratic space, human rights and rule of law if we want our democracy to survive,” he said.

Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Mémounatou Ibrahima, emphasised that after 25 years, the institution must reflect on its achievements while confronting emerging regional challenges.

“Our mediation missions in member states experiencing political tensions remind us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict. Peace rests fundamentally on just, credible, and inclusive institutions,” she said.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan reaffirmed that despite its challenges, democracy remains the strongest foundation for development and peaceful coexistence. He noted the Parliament’s key role in ensuring inclusive and credible elections across West Africa.

Jonathan condemned rising violent extremism and called for coordinated regional action, led by the Parliament’s convening and oversight role.

“Our region must remain firm against unconstitutional treaties or governments,” he said.
“In an era where democracy faces new threats, your role in promoting credible elections, good governance, and peaceful resolution of disputes is more critical than ever.”

Former Nigerian Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo added that ECOWAS is facing “tumultuous times” and urged deeper integration and cooperation.

“As our region navigates complex security, economic, and political challenges, the role of this Parliament becomes even more interesting and complicated,” he said.

The ceremony coincides with the Parliament’s ongoing two-week 2025 Extraordinary Session, which began on Monday.

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