.... Says Coup in Guinea Bissau Unacceptable
Activities for the 2025 Second Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament have begun in Abuja with the Speaker Rt. Hon. Mémounatou Ibrahima harping on the ideals of regional cooperation, peace and democratic governance, in the subregion.
She also condemned the military coup in Guinea Bissau, affirming to the decision of ECOWAS body even as she stressed that even is a slap on regional democracy, peace, good governance and is unacceptable.
In his Opening Address on behalf of Speaker Rt. Hon. Mémounatou Ibrahima, First Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Jibrin Barau said the gathering signalled a “collective commitment to the ideals of regional cooperation, peace and democratic governance," even as she described the recent military coup in Guinea Bissau as an unacceptable assault on democracy and a direct threat to regional stability.
"However, even as we celebrate these advances, we have been confronted with deeply troubling developments in Guinea-Bissau. This attempted subversion of the people’s will, especially after a peaceful and orderly electoral process, cannot be tolerated.
"In line with ECOWAS’ principle of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government, I strongly condemn the unlawful seizure of power in Guinea-Bissau. The ECOWAS Parliament fully aligns itself with the decisions taken by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
"We stand resolutely with the people of Guinea-Bissau. Their voices, expressed clearly and peacefully at the ballot box, must be respected. We will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that democracy is not only restored—but safeguarded."
The First Deputy commended Parliamentarians for remaining committed to the noble mission to represent the people of West Africa, deliberate on their behalf, defend their interests as well as work for their well-being.
He highlighted the Agenda for this Session to contains issues of paramount importance that are structured around several major activities, namely: Commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the ECOWAS Parliament; Consideration of the Consolidated Community Budget for the year 2026; Consideration of Reports of Standing, Joint and Ad hoc Committees; Presentation of Country Reports; and Interactive Sessions with some of our Institutional Partners.
"Our presence here today is a further demonstration of our collective commitment to the ideals of regional cooperation, peace and democratic governance, which define the very essence of our great Community.
"You have remained committed to the noble mission of our Parliament to represent the people of West Africa, deliberate on their behalf, defend their interests and work for their well-being.
"This significant progress is as a result of your invaluable contributions to achieving our shared vision of a united, prosperous and sustainable West Africa. On this note, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all of you," she said
According to her, the agenda underscores the central role of Parliament in the institutional architecture and the future of the Community, especially as the Parliament clocked 25th of its establishment on the 16th of November, 2025.
"For a quarter of a century, our Parliament has stood as a symbol of the people’s representation at the regional level, providing a forum where citizens' voices are heard, democratic oversight is enhanced and regional integration is continuously deepened.
"As we celebrate this silver jubilee, we would like to pay tribute to the3 founding fathers whose visions and courage gave birth to this Institution, as well as to the Parliamentarians of both past and present Legislatures whose dedication has shaped its evolution.
"As we reflect solemnly on the history of the Parliamentary Institution, this 25th Anniversary celebration is a moment to reflect on the progress we have made, the strength of our values and the prospects for our future."
She maintained that the reflection is primarily aimed at finding ways and means to strengthen cohesion between Member States of the Community and giving a sense of belonging to its populations.
"Over the next few days, we shall celebrate this milestone with the dignity, gratitude, and renewed commitment it deserves, mindful that our legacy will be judged by the future generations of West Africans.
"Pursuant to Article 17 of the Supplementary Act relating to the Enhancement of the Powers of the ECOWAS Parliament, we are mandated to consider the draft Community Budget, render our opinion thereon, and, where necessary, propose amendments to ensure its alignment with the objectives of the Community.
"This responsibility calls for diligence, courage, and foresight. We must ensure that resources are directed towards programs that foster stability, development, and improve the well-being of our people.," the Speaker stressed.
She urged the Parliamentarians to be mindful of the complex realities before them including: persistent economic constraints, multifaceted security challenges, and the growing expectations of our citizens.
"Our duty is not merely to deliberate; but also, to ensure that every decision we take has a tangible and positive impact on the lives of West African population."
She called on the Parliamentarians to pay close attention to several legal texts of major importance submitted for consideration, especially the Supplementary Act relating to the ECOWAS Court of Justice and its Arbitration Rules, which will enhance the Community’s legal framework;
Regulation on the Management of Public Debt and the Directive on Public Accounting, which aim to consolidate economic governance and financial transparency within the Community.
"A careful study of these texts is crucial for deepening our integration and ensuring the stability of our sub-region.
"Our region continues to make democratic gains which are worthy of acknowledgement and commendation.
In Côte d’Ivoire, we witnessed a presidential election conducted in a calm and peaceful atmosphere. I salute the Ivorian people for the maturity they displayed and for their unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.
"On behalf of the ECOWAS Parliament, I extend heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, President Alassane Ouattara, on his re-election.
"Looking ahead, the Republic of Guinea prepares to hold its first presidential election on December 28, following the 2021 military takeover. This moment represents a decisive step toward the full restoration of constitutional order. I commend the government and people of Guinea for their resilience throughout this transition and for their steadfast commitment to the agreed ECOWAS roadmap.
"While we celebrate the democratic gains mentioned above, we must also acknowledge the enormity of the persistent challenges within our Community, namely insecurity, economic crises, effects of climate change and fragile democratic transitions, as sadly demonstrated by the recent situation in Guinea-Bissau.
"These challenges call for collective actions. In the face of these challenges, our response must be coordinated, united and firmly based on the principles of regional integration.
"As the representative body of the people of West Africa, the ECOWAS Parliament must continue to assume its leadership role in formulating solutions, promoting dialogue, inclusive governance and supporting our Member States in their relentless quest for peace, democracy and prosperity," she stressed.