Ghana’s Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul Calls for Allegiance to Heads of State and ECOWAS Amidst Niger Crisis
In a significant gathering convened in Accra, the Minister of Defence for Ghana, Dominic Nitiwul, addressed a group of army chiefs from West African nations. During this extraordinary meeting, he emphasized the importance of unwavering loyalty towards both their respective heads of state and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Minister Nitiwul’s words took on heightened relevance as discussions centered on measures to restore democracy in Niger.
Nitiwul called upon the assembled army chiefs to project a resolute message to the global community, signaling that the era in which coup makers garnered popular support has reached its conclusion. He stressed, “Your mere presence communicates a potent message to the world—your unity in executing the directives of ECOWAS heads of state and governments. Following these discussions, it is imperative that you formulate a comprehensive strategy to activate a standby force, ensuring the restoration of democracy in Niger.”
The minister’s address underscored the critical role played by the armed forces in upholding the stability and constitutional order of the region. Reflecting on recent events, Nitiwul articulated, “The unsettling scenario where presidential guards in Guinea and Niger take their leaders hostage renders no one in West Africa immune. Thus, I implore you to remain steadfast in your allegiance to heads of state and uphold the principles outlined by ECOWAS. Together, we must herald an end to the era when coup d’états enjoyed the backing of our populace.”
Nitiwul acknowledged the inevitable diversity of opinions in a democratic context but emphasized that the majority of West African citizens stood united against the adversities faced by the region. The underlying message was clear: collaboration, unity, and fidelity to democratic ideals are paramount.
This momentous gathering was precipitated by the decision of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS to mobilize a standby force in response to the crisis unfolding in Niger. In light of this crisis, the West African community initially issued a seven-day ultimatum to General Abdourahamane Tchiani’s military junta, urging the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum. Subsequently, during a pivotal meeting in Abuja, Nigeria on August 10, the Authority expanded its considerations to include a standby force intervention.
The sentiment expressed during the Accra gathering resonated with Ghana’s Parliament, which threw its support behind a joint military intervention to restore order in Niger. Furthermore, Ivory Coast’s leader, Alassane Ouattara, conveyed their country’s commitment to the cause, announcing that financial arrangements had been finalized to contribute a battalion to the collaborative force.
As West African army chiefs convene, a unified resolve emerges—a commitment to safeguard democracy, thwart coup support, and reinvigorate stability throughout the region.
