ECOWAS expresses concern over Nigerian protests, calls for dialogue

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has expressed deep concern over the ongoing protests in Nigeria, citing reports of violence, fatalities, and property destruction.

The commission has urged protesters to heed the call for dialogue by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement released on Tuesday, ECOWAS extended condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and expressed sympathy with the Nigerian government and its people over the losses incurred.

The statement emphasized the right of citizens to peaceful protests as enshrined in the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.

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“The ECOWAS Commission has been closely monitoring the ongoing protests by citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and deeply regrets reports of violence in the course of the protests and the unfortunate death of some protesters as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private properties.

“The commission extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathizes with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the losses.

“The ECOWAS Commission recognises the right of citizens to peaceful protests, as guaranteed by the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended,” the statement read in part.

Additionally, the commission welcomed the recent State of the Nation address by President Bola Tinubu on August 4, 2024.

ECOWAS urged protesters and all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for inclusive dialogue to address grievances and ensure peace and security in Nigeria and the wider ECOWAS region.

“The Commission welcomes the State of the Nation address of August 4, 2024 by President Bola Tinubu and urges the protesters and all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for inclusive dialogue for the resolution of all grievances and the preservation of peace and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region at large,” it added.