ECOWAS refuses Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso exit from bloc

The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) has reacted to the notice of withdrawal by three members – Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso from the sub-regional bloc.

TheCornet had reported the withdrawal of the three military regimes from the bloc—their fiercest response to the body’s sustained opposition to military takeovers in their countries.

In a communique the ECOWAS Commission issued, in Abuja, on Sunday evening, the body said it had been working with the three countries for restoration of constitutional order.

It reads: “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.

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“The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves.”