By Linus Aleke, Abuja
The Federal Government yesterday expressed sadness over the sudden exit of the military authority in the Republics of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Nigerian authority also noted that for half a century, ECOWAS has worked to promote peace, prosperity, and democracy in the region.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs Francisca Omayuli, the Federal Government said that it stands with ECOWAS to emphasise due process and shared commitment to protect and strengthen the rights and welfare of all citizens of member states.
Nigeria, she said, has worked sincerely and in good faith to reach out to all members of the ECOWAS family to resolve the difficulties being faced.
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According to the statement, “It is now clear that those seeking to quit the Community do not share that same good faith. Instead, unelected leaders engage in public posturing to deny their people the sovereign right to make fundamental choices over their freedom of movement, freedom to trade, and freedom to choose their leaders”.
Nigeria, she added, remains open for engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger so that all the people of the region can continue to enjoy the economic benefits and democratic values that ECOWAS embraces.
FG further appeals to the International Community to continue to extend its support for ECOWAS and the vision of closer partnership, cooperation, and integration.
