In a resolute stance, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, the current chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has pledged unwavering support to safeguard democracy in Sierra Leone.
President Tinubu made this commitment during the inauguration of the 64th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS.
Highlighting recent disruptions in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau, Tinubu stressed the paramount importance of protecting democratic institutions.
Firmly asserting ECOWAS’ position against any unconstitutional changes of government in the region, Tinubu urged member states to stand firm in defending democracy in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau.
He explicitly stated ECOWAS’ endorsement of only democratically elected governments, vehemently opposing those that seize power through unconstitutional means.
President Tinubu concluded his address by expressing his steadfast determination to champion the cause of democracy, asserting its triumph as imperative.
Sierra Leone recently faced a thwarted coup attempt, where assailants attacked a military armory in Wilberforce and targeted a military base in the capital, Freetown.
President Julius Maada Bio confirmed the successful repulsion of the attackers, maintaining full governmental control. Responding to the incident, a curfew was imposed, leading to multiple arrests.
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma is under house arrest and is cooperating with Sierra Leone Police investigations. Access to him at his residence in western Freetown has been restricted.
Simultaneously, reports emerged of an unsuccessful coup attempt in Guinea Bissau, further underscoring the precarious situation in the West African region.
