Political analysts, diplomats, and civil society leaders warn that poor governance, electoral manipulation, and leadership overreach are driving a resurgence of military coups across West Africa. Rooted in the storm of regional instability, the recent failed takeover in Benin reflects deeper systemic failures shaking the foundations of democracy.
Key Points
Experts cite bad governance, sit-tight leadership, and weak institutions as key coup drivers.
The African Union and ECOWAS condemned Benin’s attempted coup, deploying a standby force.
Nigerian Air Force jets supported the operation to restore constitutional order.
Former VP Atiku Abubakar warned coups endanger democracy and must be resisted.
Diplomats say ECOWAS is losing control, with multiple member states now under military rule.
Analysts argue that elections have lost credibility, leaving military intervention as a perceived alternative.
Recent coups in Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau reflect a regional contagion effect.
As soldiers reappear on state TV and constitutions are suspended, West Africa faces a sobering truth: when democracy fails to deliver, the barracks often provide the next chapter.
Sources: Daily Trust, Analyst Interviews, ECOWAS/AU Statements