Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have formally notified the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of their intention to withdraw from the regional bloc. The military regimes in these countries accuse ECOWAS of undermining their sovereignty and moving away from its founding principles. The decision to withdraw comes after ECOWAS imposed sanctions on the three countries following military coups that ousted elected civilian governments.
In a joint statement, the three countries expressed regret and disappointment that ECOWAS had strayed from the ideals of its founding fathers and had become influenced by foreign powers. They criticized the bloc for failing to ensure the happiness and well-being of its member states and populations.
Nigeria, a regional powerhouse and host of ECOWAS, expressed sadness over the departure of the three countries from the bloc. Nigeria emphasized the importance of due process and commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all citizens of member states. Despite the withdrawal, Nigeria remains open to engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger and calls on the international community to continue supporting ECOWAS and its vision of regional partnership, cooperation, and integration.
