The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has accused the Economic Community of West African States of applying inconsistent standards in its response to recent political unrest in Guinea-Bissau. Obi made the remarks on Tuesday while commenting on the confusion that followed reports of an attempted coup in the West African nation.
The incident, described by authorities in Bissau as an institutional breakdown involving elements of the National Guard, prompted swift public statements from ECOWAS condemning what it viewed as a threat to the country’s constitutional order. The organisation reiterated its zero-tolerance position on unconstitutional changes of government.
Obi argued that ECOWAS reacted with unusual haste despite what he called unclear circumstances surrounding the episode. He said the organisation’s strong statement contrasted with its more cautious approach to other instances of political tension and alleged democratic breaches within the region. According to him, such inconsistency undermines ECOWAS’s authority and raises questions about its commitment to safeguarding democratic norms.
He noted that West Africa is facing a period of significant political fragility, with several member states contending with coups, disputed elections and public distrust in civilian administrations. In his view, the regional bloc must demonstrate fairness and steadiness if it hopes to restore confidence in its role as a guardian of constitutional order.
Obi urged ECOWAS to adopt clearer guidelines for responding to political disruptions and to ensure that its interventions reflect even-handed judgement rather than selective urgency. He added that stability in Guinea-Bissau and across the sub-region will depend on transparent processes, respect for institutions and consistent regional leadership.
