WEST AFRICAN LEADERS REAFFIRM DEMOCRACY AS ECOWAS PARLIAMENT MARKS 25 YEARS
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
West African leaders have renewed calls for stronger democracy and firm resistance to coups as the ECOWAS Parliament celebrated its 25th anniversary in Abuja.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan urged leaders to protect democratic institutions, warning that West Africa’s stability depends on unity and respect for the rule of law. Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, represented by his Foreign Minister, praised ECOWAS for helping sustain peace in the region.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Touray also stressed the need for deeper regional cooperation as insecurity and political tensions rise. Touray called on the Parliament to defend human rights and democratic values across member states.
Speaker Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima noted the Parliament’s evolution over 25 years, from a consultative body to a stronger decision-making institution playing a key role in mediation and oversight.
The celebration also honoured past Speakers for their contributions to the Parliament’s growth.