THE GUARDIAN
Nigerian government has said that the surge of military coups in the West African is fast becoming a threat to the democratic culture in the region.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Mediation and Security Council, Yusuf Tuggar, stated this while delivering his opening remarks at the 51st Ordinary Session of Mediation and Security Council.
The Security Council is an organ of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Citing the recently foiled coup attempts in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau, the envoy charged members of the Council to have a collective responsibility of proffering solutions to address the current challenges, with a view to engendering sustainable peace and stability in the subregion.
He commended the Governments of Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau for their resolute efforts in thwarting recent attempts to destabilize constitutional harmony in the two countries.
“This meeting avails us the opportunity to exhaustively discuss our collective existential challenges, and to devise strategies to tackle these emerging threats for the overall well-being of our community citizens. It is through these discussions that we can effectively shape the policies for our collective response, ensuring comprehensive and coordinated actions that align with the needs and aspirations of our Member States. As we proceed with deliberations.
“I urge us all to engage in constructive dialogue, embracing diversity of thought and fostering an atmosphere of friendly exchanges. Our decisions must be guided by the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and the promotion of democratic values”, he said.
While congratulating the government and people of Liberia on the successful conduct of the recent Presidential and legislative elections in the country, Ambassador Tuggar said it was a testament to the country’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles and ethos.
The Minister also applauded the tireless efforts of the leadership of the ECOWAS Commission, Heads of ECOWAS Institutions, as well as dedicated staff who continue to play pivotal roles in advancing the interests of the community and fostering peace and security throughout the region.
