Sanctions Against Mali, Burkina Faso, Others Threatening ECOWAS’ Unity- Gowon

Former Nigerian Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has raised concerns over the dire effect of sanctions against Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic on the ECOWAS, says it threatens the unity of the bloc.

In an open letter to the Heads of State and the ECOWAS member states in Abuja on Wednesday evening, Gowon, who is one of the founding fathers of ECOWAS, stated his fears that the decision by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic to exit ECOWAS would have far-reaching implications for ordinary citizens.

He said: “It saddens me to learn that ECOWAS is threatened with disunity following the announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—three important Member States—of their intention to leave the Community.

“The impact of such a decision will have far-reaching implications for ordinary citizens who have been the major beneficiaries of regional integration.”

Addressing a press conference at the ECOWAS Commission’s headquarters, Gowon urged the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, to lift sanctions on Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Niger Republic.

He added that the West African leaders and the affected nations should sheath their swords and re-unite for peace and stability in the region.

“The ECOWAS authorities should immediately consider the implementation of the lifting of all sanctions that have been imposed on Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger.”

“Therefore, on behalf of all the founding fathers of the community and myself, I urge the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, including the leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, to put aside their differences and reunite for the peace, stability, and prosperity of our sub-region,” he added.

According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the former Nigerian leader also presented the open letter to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray.

Recall that after the coups and accompanying political instability in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic, ECOWAS slammed the three countries with sanctions.

The bloc’s decision led the three countries to declare their decision to finally exit the bloc.