The West African subregion has been plagued by a disturbing trend since 2poses a according to the former Nigerian Military Leader.
He believed this phenomenon is having far-reaching consequences and must be addressed urgently.
The formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) by three countries has weakened the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to which they previously belonged.
This development has sparked concerns about the future of regional cooperation.
Delivering a keynote address at the Republic Day Lecture organized by the One Ghana Movement and the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, the former Nigerian President emphasized that ECOWAS is currently facing significant challenges.
The bloc’s survival depends on finding new solutions to address the rise of non-constitutional governments in the region.
“West Africa needs a fresh approach to dealing with governments that emerge from coups,” he stressed. “ECOWAS is currently in a fragile state, requiring intensive care and proactive leadership to revive it.”Obasanjo expressed concerns about external forces influencing the Sahel States and potentially prolonging their separation from ECOWAS.
This could take a long time – maybe a decade or more, he warned.
He also highlighted the potential risks of European reactions to the developments in West Africa, noting that the military leaders in Guinea-Conakry seemed in no hurry to relinquish power.
The Alliance of Sahel States, comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, was formed on July 6, 2024, as a mutual defense pact.
This alliance reflects a shift away from Western influence, with member states seeking support from Russia for security and political backing.
The AES aims to address regional security challenges, including jihadist insurgencies, and promote a “sovereignist revival” in the region.
By Akosua Patience
