The Economic Community of West African States Commission has shown dissatisfaction over reports of violence, fatalities, and property destruction during the ongoing protests in Nigeria.
Thus, it asked protesters to pay attention to the request for communication.
The commission conveyed its sympathies to the relatives of the deceased and its condolences to the Nigerian government and people for their losses.
ECOWAS underlined the freedom of citizens to peaceful protests as guaranteed by Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution and the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance in a statement made available to the press on Tuesday.
The statement reads;
“The ECOWAS Commission has been closely monitoring the ongoing protests by citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and deeply regrets reports of violence during the protests, including the tragic death of some protesters, as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private property.
“The commission expresses heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathises with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the losses.
“The ECOWAS Commission recognises the right of citizens to peaceful protests, as guaranteed by the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The commission also commended President Bola Tinubu’s on Nation address that took place on August 4, 2024.
“In order to resolve complaints and maintain peace and security in Nigeria and the larger ECOWAS region, the President has called for inclusive discussion, which ECOWAS has asked protestors and all parties to pay attention to.
“The Commission urges the protestors and all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for inclusive dialogue for the resolution of all grievances and the preservation of peace and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region at large,” the statement continued.
“ In Nigeria, the hunger protests turned violent, resulting in multiple fatalities, property fires, and severe disruptions to commercial operations.
“Several important roadways were closed, escalating the situation. The #EndBadGovernance rallies, which have gained traction in key cities such Kano, Gombe, Yobe, Borno, Niger, Kebbi, Abuja, and other northern towns, have been marked by increased violence. In some situations, security officers’ actions sparked the violence, while in others, it was motivated by overzealous protestors or counter-protesters.
“Tinubu has pleaded with the organisers of the nationwide protest to halt the action since it had turned violent in several states, resulting in the loss of life and property.
Bottom Line
As a regional body, ECOWAS has a vested interest in the stability of Nigeria and the wider West African region. Its encouragement of dialogue and emphasis on peace and security underscore the importance of regional cooperation in resolving domestic conflicts that can have broader implications.
Achieving meaningful dialogue requires sincerity and a genuine willingness from all parties to engage in good faith.
This involves not only listening to protestors’ concerns but also taking tangible steps to address issues such as fuel price, food price, security and every other thing that fueled the protest.
