ECOWAS Yet To Receive Official Withdrawal Notice From Niger and Co

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) says it is yet to be formally informed about the withdrawal of three member states.

Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali served notice for their exit from the West African bloc on Sunday, January 28 over a myriad of concerns.

In a joint statement, they said the bloc has deviated from its mandate and has come under the influence of the West and also faulted the bloc for failing to tackle challenges faced by individual members.

However, the Commission in a statement in reaction to the development said it is yet to get an official notice from the three.

“The attention of the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) has been drawn to a statement broadcast on the National Televisions of Mali and Niger announcing the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS.

“The ECOWAS Commission is yet to receive any direct formal notification from the three Member States about their intention to withdraw from the Community.”

It has promised to make further comments about the case after an official communication.

“The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves.”

Meanwhile, it said it has directed the Authority of Heads of State and Government to work assiduously with the three countries for the restoration of constitutional order, adding, “Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali remain important members of the Community and the Authority remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse.”

A junta overthrew Niger’s elected President, Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, 2023. It was preceded by Mali’s May 2021 overthrow of President Bah N’daw.

Interim President Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was overthrown by the military in Burkina Faso on September 30, 2022.