The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a regional state of emergency in response to escalating political instability and security threats across several member states.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council at the ministerial level in Abuja.

Touray warned that the deteriorating situation in West Africa requires urgent, coordinated action, stressing that recent events underscore the “need for serious introspection on the future of our democracy and greater investment in the security of our community.”

The declaration follows a growing wave of unconstitutional changes of government in the sub-region. In recent years, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea-Bissau have all experienced coups or attempted coups, while security services in Benin and other countries have reported foiled mutinies.

Officials say Tuesday’s meeting was convened to review the multiple threats facing the region—including military takeovers, political unrest, and violent extremism—and to consider measures to restore stability.

ECOWAS has come under heightened scrutiny in recent months, particularly after Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their departure from the bloc earlier this year.

Further updates are expected as the ministerial council continues its deliberations in Abuja.