External Influences and ECOWAS Ability to Address Political Instability: A Study of Niger Republic Coup

Abstract

The July 26, 2023 military coup, executed by high-ranking officers of the Conseil National Pour la Sauvegarde de la Patrie (CNSP) led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has significantly impacted the country's political environment and the ECOWAS sub-region in general. This event, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, has raised critical questions about the influence of external factors and the efficacy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in managing political instability in view of the recurring military coups in the West African sub-region in recent times. Given this, the study examined how external actors contributed to the military coup in Niger Republic and the efficacy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in addressing it. Adopting Conflict Theory, primarily developed by Karl Marx, the research focuses on the inherent conflicts driven by competition for limited resources and power struggles. The study employs an explanatory research design to analyse the problematic. Data was analysed using the documentary method, which includes examining official reports, policy documents, and media articles to gather comprehensive information on external actors' involvement and ECOWAS’s interventions. Textual analysis is used to interpret these documents, uncovering narratives and framing strategies utilized by different stakeholders. Based on the findings of the study, it recommends among others; ECOWAS and Western allies should prioritize diplomatic engagement with Niger's new leadership and local stakeholders to address underlying grievances, reduce anti-foreign sentiments, and foster inclusive governance moreso,  the need for democratic governments within the West African political bloc to strengthen regional collaboration by involving all ECOWAS members in dialogue and decision-making processes to ensure a unified and effective response to political instability, balancing sanctions with support for humanitarian needs