Enforce targeted sanctions against leaders manipulating term limits—WADEMOS urges ECOWAS

By Abubakar Yunusa

The West Africa Democracy Solidarity (WADEMOS), a non-partisan civil society organization, has called on ECOWAS to adopt targeted sanctions against leaders who manipulate constitutions or violate term limits, instead of imposing broad-based measures that adversely affect citizens.

The recommendation was highlighted in a policy brief released as part of WADEMOS’s campaign against term limit violations in West Africa.

According to the document, ECOWAS’ current sanctions often exacerbate hardships for populations without effectively pressuring leaders. Instead, the brief advocates for targeted measures such as travel bans and asset freezes for those responsible for term limit violations.

“ECOWAS should codify penalties for term limit violations within its protocols on democracy and governance, ensuring predictable and enforceable consequences,” the policy brief stated.

Speaking at a panel discussion ahead of the 66th ECOWAS Heads of State Summit in Abuja, WADEMOS Project Coordinator Marie-Josiane Ngah emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to uphold democracy.

“This meeting holds great significance given the persistent challenges facing https://elanzanews.ng/ in upholding democracy and maintaining regional integration,” Ngah said.

She warned of potential risks, including the exit of Sahelian countries from ECOWAS, which could derail progress towards building a region rooted in democratic accountability and grassroots inclusion.

Ngah urged stakeholders to support WADEMOS’s advocacy efforts, noting that collective action is essential to safeguard democracy and enhance regional cooperation.

WADEMOS Advocacy Officer Austin Aigbe presented findings from Afrobarometer surveys, revealing widespread public support for term limits across Africa.

“In 34 African countries, about three-quarters of citizens favor limiting presidential mandates to two terms,” Aigbe noted.

He proposed that ECOWAS protocols include explicit provisions preventing amendments on term limits from benefiting sitting leaders, classifying such attempts as unconstitutional changes of government.

“Any constitutional manipulation in favor of a sitting head of state should be deemed a constitutional coup, akin to a military coup,” Aigbe added.

Prof. David Dosseh, National Coordinator of Tournons La Page-Togo, stressed the importance of political reform for stability in the region.

“A quality reform that limits the mandates of heads of state is obligatory,” he said, urging ECOWAS leaders to prioritize governance, peace, and political maturity.

Similarly, Afrikajom’s International Relations Officer, Sadikh Niass, highlighted the benefits of regional integration facilitated by ECOWAS, calling for urgent measures to safeguard citizens’ gains.