President Bola Tinubu has implored West African leaders to make good governance and the collective prosperity of their subjects a priority – in order to discourage military take-overs in the region.
The President who is also the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, made this call at the 64th ordinary session of the West African bloc in Abuja.
Addressing the high-powered regional gathering, the President identified good governance as a key catalyst to secure popular support through the socio-economic transformation and development of West Africa.
Recounting decisions taken by West African leaders to further strengthen the region’s democratic achievements and uphold the right of the people to elect the leaders of their choice, the President said the bloc has outlined specific measures to be taken against any member state opting for an unconstitutional change of government.
President Tinubu affirmed that although the imposition of punitive sanctions may pose challenges, it remains necessary in order to protect the fundamental liberties of citizens under ECOWAS.
He also used the occasion to applaud President George Weah of Liberia for conceding defeat and congratulating his opponent during the last presidential election in Liberia.
He invited leaders at the summit and other participants to give a standing ovation to President Weah for the gentlemanly gesture