The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has responded to the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali, and the Republic of Niger from the economic bloc.
This followed a joint communique, made public on Sunday, January 28, by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, stating that ECOWAS has neglected its founding principles, posing a threat to its member states and the well-being of their populations, which it is supposed to ensure.
In response to this, ECOWAS, in a communique, stated that the commission has yet to receive a direct or formal notification from the three member states.
The communique read, “The attention of the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) has been drawn to a statement broadcast on the National Televisions of Mali and Niger announcing the decision of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS.
“The ECOWAS Commission is yet to receive any direct formal notification from the three Member States about their intention to withdraw from the Community.
“The ECOWAS Commission, as directed by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, has been working assiduously with these countries for the restoration of constitutional order. Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali remain important members of the Community and the Authority remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to the political impasse.
“The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves.”
