ECOWAS AND NIGERIA’S DIPLOMATIC RESPONSE TO MILITARY COUPS IN WEST AFRICA

Abstract

This study examines the diplomatic responses of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Nigeria to the resurgence of military coups in West Africa, with particular focus on recent unconstitutional changes of government in Mali , Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The main objective of the study is to analyze ECOWAS and Nigeria's diplomatic responses to military coups in the region, examining the factors contributing to the recurrence of coups and the challenges facing Nigeria's diplomatic efforts in managing political crises. Guided by Liberalist theory, which emphasizes international institutions, cooperation, and democratic norms in managing interstate relations, the study employs a survey research design utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. The primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 364 respondents selected from a target population Data were analyzed using frequency distributions and simple percentages, supplemented by content analysis of official documents, academic literature, and archival materials. The study identified weak democratic institutions, corruption, poor governance, economic hardship, political exclusion, insecurity, and leadership failure to uphold constitutionalism as primary factors driving recurrence of military coups in West Africa. The study concludes that while ECOWAS and Nigeria have played significant roles in addressing military coups through diplomatic responses, the recurring nature of coups in West Africa remains a persistent challenge to regional stability and democratic governance. Based on these findings, the study recommends that ECOWAS and national governments implement comprehensive policies addressing inequality, political marginalization, and economic deprivation to tackle root causes of instability. The study contributes to the understanding of regional diplomatic mechanisms in addressing unconstitutional changes of government and provides policy-relevant insights for sustainable democracy and stability in West Africa.