Gowon urges ECOWAS leaders to uphold democracy amid military coups

Innocent RaphaelMay 29, 2025

1 minute read

Gowon urges ECOWAS leaders to uphold democracy amid military coups 1

Former Nigerian Head of State Yakubu Gowon has called on West African leaders to remain committed to democratic governance despite recent setbacks caused by a resurgence of military coups in the region.

Gowon made the remarks during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which took place in Lagos on Wednesday. As one of the key architects of ECOWAS in 1975, Gowon reflected on the bloc’s resilience over the past five decades in the face of numerous challenges such as civil wars, economic instability, terrorism, and pandemics.

While acknowledging the accomplishments of ECOWAS, Gowon emphasized the need for renewed dedication to the principles of good governance, regional solidarity, and economic cooperation. He expressed concern over the rising youth unemployment and insecurity across member states, warning that these issues, combined with political instability, could threaten the region’s democratic foundations.

“Military coups must not define us,” Gowon said. “Instead, they should awaken our resolve to recommit to democracy and the core values that ECOWAS stands for.”

Gowon also addressed the recent withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the regional bloc, following ECOWAS-imposed sanctions after military takeovers in those countries. Despite their departure, he expressed hope that shared history and cultural ties would eventually encourage them to return.

“I believe with goodwill and sincere dialogue, they will find reasons to come back,” he stated.

All three countries experienced military coups between 2021 and 2023 and formally exited ECOWAS in January 2025. The bloc had imposed sanctions in an attempt to restore democratic rule, but leaders in the affected nations criticized the measures as unjust.

Gowon’s message comes at a critical juncture for ECOWAS, as it grapples with how to balance regional security, democratic integrity, and the challenges of integration in a turbulent political landscape.