ECOWAS Declares West Africa State of Emergency as Coups, Mutinies Shake Region

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency across the West African sub-region following a disturbing rise in coups, attempted coups, and failed mutinies in recent months.

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

Touray, while addressing representatives of member states, warned that the escalating political instability poses a severe threat to the region’s democratic foundations. He stressed that the situation demands urgent and collective reflection on the future of governance across West Africa.

According to him, the growing wave of unconstitutional changes in government reinforces the need for “greater investment in community security and stronger mechanisms to protect democratic institutions.”

The state of emergency declaration comes just days after Benin survived a coup attempt, adding to a troubling list of political disruptions observed in several ECOWAS member countries.

Touray noted that the region cannot afford to ignore the warning signs, adding that the sub-region must act decisively to safeguard peace, stability, and democratic governance.

ECOWAS is expected to roll out coordinated security measures, deepen diplomatic engagements, and strengthen early-warning systems as part of its response to the unfolding crisis.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with regional leaders, international partners, and security agencies to restore calm and uphold constitutional order across West Africa.