The current chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, has vowed to take all necessary measures to protect democracy in Sierra Leone. President Tinubu made this statement during the opening ceremony of the 64th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS.
Addressing the recent disturbances in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau, Tinubu emphasized the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions. He underscored ECOWAS’ firm stance against any unconstitutional changes of government within the sub-region. Tinubu urged member states to remain steadfast in their commitment to defending democracy in Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau. He made it clear that ECOWAS supports only democratically elected governments and not those that come to power through unconstitutional means. Tinubu concluded by expressing his determination to fight for democracy, asserting that it must prevail.
It is worth noting that Sierra Leone recently experienced an attempted coup, with gunmen attacking a military armory in Wilberforce, a military base in the capital, Freetown. President Julius Maada Bio confirmed that the attackers were repelled, and his administration currently has full control over the country. In response, a curfew was imposed, and several individuals have been arrested. Former President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone has been placed under house arrest and is assisting the Sierra Leone Police with investigations. Public access to him at his residence on Femi Turner Drive in western Freetown has been restricted.
Similarly, there were reports of an unsuccessful coup attempt in Guinea Bissau.
