President Bola Tinubu Advocates Good Governance as Key to Curtailing Military Coups in Africa
President Bola Tinubu, Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has presented a resounding call for prioritizing good governance as the cornerstone in preventing military coups across the African continent.
Speaking during the 64th ordinary session of the authority of heads of state and government at the state house in Abuja on Sunday, Tinubu highlighted the imperative role of good governance in averting authoritarian takeovers and unconstitutional changes of government within the region.
Emphasizing the importance of collective prosperity and good governance, Tinubu urged West African leaders to address the concerns of citizens, improve their quality of life, and create a stable environment conducive to sustainable development.
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Ajuri Ngelale, the special adviser to President Tinubu on media and publicity, quoted the President, saying, “The delivery of good governance is not just a fundamental commitment; it is also an avenue to address the concerns of our citizens, to improve their quality of life, and create a stable environment conducive to the achievement of sustainable development.”
Tinubu underscored the significance of combating challenges like poverty and inequality, stating that addressing these issues would curtail the underlying causes that often lead to military interventions in civilian processes within the region.
In furtherance, Tinubu outlined ECOWAS’s plan to establish the ‘Sahel Alliance,’ comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, highlighting the bloc’s unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles.
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He reaffirmed ECOWAS’s stance on taking specific measures against any member state attempting an unconstitutional change of government. Tinubu advocated for realistic and swift transition plans in countries under military rule, encouraging their return to democratic governance.
Acknowledging the potential challenges associated with imposing punitive sanctions, Tinubu stressed the importance of safeguarding fundamental liberties while asserting that the fight for democracy remains paramount.
Additionally, President Tinubu appealed to sister African countries to extend technical and material support to nations affected by coups, reinforcing the collective effort to restore democratic structures.
Tinubu’s address underscores a united call within the region to strengthen governance, protect democracy, and foster stability across Africa, signaling a collective commitment to combatting the recurrence of military takeovers in the region.
