9
West Africa’s political landscape is facing renewed turbulence, prompting ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray to warn that the region is effectively in a state of emergency. His remarks followed a failed coup attempt in Benin, the latest in a series of military takeovers, including last month’s coup in Guinea-Bissau. Nigeria has stepped in at Benin’s request, with its Senate approving troop deployment after earlier airstrikes aimed at stopping the takeover. Touray urged deeper reflection on the future of democracy and stronger investment in regional security as ECOWAS confronts criticism over inconsistent responses to past coups. Analysts say the declaration may be an effort to reassert the bloc’s authority amid fears that coups and military takeovers are becoming normalized in the region.
AP