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Bishop PDF ch1
Bishop PDF ch1
1.1 Introduction
ECOWAS came into existence through a treaty signed on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria,
by fifteen West African States. Leaders from General Yakubu Gowon of Nigeria to Gnassingbe
Eyadema of Togo, and Sangoule Lamizana of Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso), shared a
common vision for the formation of ECOWAS – to foster cooperation and integration for
economic growth and development in West Africa.¹ The primary objective of ECOWAS is to
promote cooperation and development across various economic sectors, including industry,
and financial matters, as well as social and cultural affairs. This collective effort aims to elevate
the standard of living, ensure economic stability, strengthen relations among member states, and
The concept of economic integration gained traction due to the challenging socio-economic
economy of the 1970s. Following the global oil price shock of 1973, many West African nations,
external balance issues and a reliance on foreign financial support to sustain imports and foster
prevalent in West Africa.³ Economic integration was perceived as the most effective approach to
overcoming these challenges, based on the theoretical premise that such integration positively
impacts the Gross National Product (GNP) growth rates of participating countries. The benefits
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of economic integration as outlined by Jaber, highlighting how it leads to increased market size,
economic activity, efficiency, and trade harmonization. It also acknowledges potential challenges
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has emerged as a prominent
player in conflict prevention and management within the sub-region. Since 1990, initiatives like
the Standing Mediation Committee (SMC) and the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in
Liberia have underscored ECOWAS's commitment to restoring peace in West Africa. However,
it's important to note that ECOWAS initially prioritized socio-economic development over peace
and security concerns, as reflected in its founding treaty which lacked security-related provisions.
This emphasis on economic cooperation was deliberate, aimed at avoiding divisive political
issues. Despite this focus, efforts were made to address security matters through protocols like
the Protocol on Non-Aggression (1978) and the Protocol Relating to Mutual Assistance on
Defence (1981).⁵ These protocols aimed to bolster security and defense across the sub-region.
Additionally, individual states within the region forged bilateral defense agreements to enhance
their security strategies. For instance, Guinea and Sierra Leone signed a defense agreement in
1971, leading to Guinean troops aiding Sierra Leone during coup attempts.⁶
The Senegambia confederation between Senegal and the Gambia also stemmed partly from
security concerns, with Senegal deploying troops to the Gambia to maintain law and order during
coup attempts. Similarly, Nigeria and Benin established a defense pact to provide mutual
assistance in defense matters. In 1984, five West African states, including Nigeria, Niger, Ghana,
Benin, and Togo, signed a quadripartite agreement focusing on security cooperation, customs,
extradition, and police cooperation. The push for greater cooperation in defense and security
arises from states' recognition of their vulnerability to internal disruptions and external
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influences. The rise of military interventions by states outside the region in conflicts within the
region, such as France and Libya's involvement in the Chadian civil war, has heightened
concerns about regional security. Additionally, Libya's aggressive search for alliance partners in
West Africa has raised alarm, highlighting the need for collective security measures within
ECOWAS.⁷
The 1978 Protocol of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
emphasized the imperative of maintaining peace and harmonious relations among member states.
It prohibited the use of force or aggression and condemned acts of subversion or hostility against
the territorial integrity or political independence of other member states. However, critics argued
that the protocol lacked institutional frameworks to address acts of aggression effectively,
especially in cases of internal insurrection supported by external actors or rebellion within the
comprehensive security framework for ECOWAS. It focused on dealing with internal armed
conflicts engineered and supported from outside the affected member state, posing a threat to
peace and security across the entire community. The protocol envisioned the creation of the
Allied Armed Forces of the Community (AAFC), comprised of designated units from existing
national armed forces, to deter security breaches and provide mutual assistance in case of
aggression.
Commander to lead the AAFC and established institutional bodies such as the Defence Council
and Defence Commission to oversee defense matters. Despite these advancements, the protocol
faced challenges, particularly opposition from Francophone member states who established their
defense agreement, ANAD, parallel to the ECOWAS protocol. Furthermore, institutional and
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financial limitations within ECOWAS delayed the development and implementation of these
frameworks. Consequently, when the Liberian crisis erupted in 1989, ECOWAS's defense
protocol was insufficient to facilitate effective intervention, highlighting the need for further
The eruption of the Liberian civil war on December 24, 1989, led by Charles Taylor against
the government of Samuel Doe, presented a significant challenge for ECOWAS in conflict
management. Rooted in issues of bad governance, exploitative economic policies, and corruption,
the war symbolized the culmination of public dissatisfaction with Doe's repressive regime, which
stifled political freedoms and resorted to political assassinations to silence dissent. What began
as a perceived minor border skirmish escalated into a full-scale civil war, with Taylor's National
Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) launching attacks from Nimba County in eastern Liberia. As
the conflict intensified and rebel forces advanced towards Monrovia, both government and rebel
factions targeted civilians, resulting in widespread casualties and humanitarian crises. Foreign
embassies, including the Nigerian Embassy, became targets of attack, leading to the massacre of
thousands of West African nationals.¹⁰ The escalating violence and humanitarian disasters
signaled the urgent need for intervention to restore peace and security.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, ECOWAS convened its 13th Summit in Banjul,
The Gambia, in May 1990, under the chairmanship of Blaise Compaore, President of Burkina
Faso. The summit resolved to establish a Standing Mediation Committee (SMC) to mediate the
Liberian crisis and called for immediate ceasefire, refugee evacuation, restoration of law and
order, and democratic processes.¹¹ Subsequently, the SMC decided to establish the ECOWAS
member states and additional support from Guinea and Sierra Leone. However, the decision to
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deploy ECOMOG was met with criticism, particularly from Francophone member states, who
argued that ECOWAS's mandate was primarily economic integration, not security-related
functions. Critics also questioned the legality of intervention under international charters and
ECOWAS protocols, citing the need for a formal request for assistance from Liberia's legitimate
head of state, as outlined in the 1981 Defense Protocol. Despite these challenges, ECOMOG's
Doubts linger over whether Samuel Doe sent a formal request for assistance, challenging
criticisms of ECOWAS intervention in Liberia. Proponents argue that economic integration and
political stability are interdependent, underscoring the need for regional security to facilitate
imperative of maintaining peace and security, as echoed by regional leaders and international
humanitarian crises and the regional implications of internal conflicts. The external support
received by rebel forces in Liberia poses a threat to sub-regional peace, justifying ECOWAS's
action under the 1978 Non-Aggression Protocol.¹³ Moreover, the absence of proper procedural
adherence in invoking the protocol highlights institutional shortcomings within ECOWAS. The
Liberian crisis exposed the lack of a robust security framework within ECOWAS, leading to ad-
hoc responses and criticisms. Similar challenges surfaced during ECOWAS intervention in
Sierra Leone, where Nigeria's military involvement raised legal and procedural questions. The
absence of formal ECOWAS authorization underscores the need for a structured security
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Lessons drawn from the volatile security landscape of West Africa underscore the
ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to political pluralism and human rights through the
adoption of the Declaration of Political Principles in 1991 and the Revised ECOWAS Treaty in
1993, emphasizing accountability, social justice, and the consolidation of democratic systems as
However it is against this backdrop that the study aims to investigate the influence of the
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on promoting peace and stability in
West Africa, focusing specifically on the political crisis in Ghana spanning from 1979 to 1993.
During this period, Ghana experienced significant political upheavals, including coups, regime
changes, and periods of instability. Against this backdrop, ECOWAS emerged as a regional
organization committed to fostering cooperation and integration among West African states, with
the ultimate goal of promoting peace, stability, and economic development in the region. The
study will delve into ECOWAS's interventions and initiatives aimed at addressing the political
crisis in Ghana.¹⁶ It will examine the strategies employed by ECOWAS to mediate conflicts,
facilitate dialogue among political factions, and promote democratic governance in Ghana.
Additionally, the study will assess the effectiveness of ECOWAS's interventions in mitigating
the political crisis and restoring peace and stability in Ghana. This analysis will involve
diplomatic initiatives in the Ghanaian context. Furthermore, the study will consider the broader
implications of ECOWAS's involvement in Ghana for regional peace and stability in West Africa.
It will explore how ECOWAS's actions in Ghana may have influenced political dynamics and
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1.2 Aims and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine the impact of ECOWAS on peace in West Africa: A case
study of Ghana political crisis, 1979-1993, while the objectives are to;
i. analyze the historical context and dynamics of the Ghanaian political crisis from 1979 to
1993;
ii. investigate the interventions and initiatives undertaken by ECOWAS during the Ghanaian
attempts;
iii. assess the effectiveness and outcomes of ECOWAS interventions in mitigating conflict,
fostering dialogue, and promoting peace and stability within Ghana and the broader West
iv. identify the challenges, limitations, and lessons learned from ECOWAS's engagement in
The statement of the problem highlights the need to delve into the intricacies of the political
crisis in Ghana spanning from 1979 to 1993. This era was marked by significant upheavals,
including coups, civil unrest, and transitions in governance, which greatly impacted the stability
of the region. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, ECOWAS emerged as a potential actor capable
of exerting influence and facilitating peace within West Africa. However, the specific impact and
ambiguous. To address this gap in understanding, the study aims to thoroughly examine the role
played by ECOWAS during the Ghanaian political crisis. By analyzing the various initiatives,
diplomatic engagements, and interventions undertaken by ECOWAS in response to the crisis, the
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research seeks to elucidate the extent to which ECOWAS contributed to peacebuilding efforts in
West Africa. This entails exploring the mechanisms through which ECOWAS intervened, the
political crisis, the study seeks to provide insights into the effectiveness of regional organizations
in addressing conflict and fostering stability within the West African context. By shedding light
on the successes, limitations, and lessons learned from ECOWAS's engagement in Ghana, the
The scope of this study encompasses a thorough examination of the Ghanaian political
crisis from 1979 to 1993, with a particular emphasis on the role and impact of the Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in promoting peace and stability within the
region. The research delves into various aspects of the crisis, including coups, civil unrest, and
transitions in governance, to understand the complexities of the situation. However, it's important
to acknowledge certain limitations. Firstly, the study's focus is confined to the Ghanaian political
crisis during the specified timeframe, limiting the generalizability of findings to other contexts or
periods of conflict. Additionally, the availability and reliability of data and sources may pose
constraints on the depth and comprehensiveness of the analysis. Furthermore, the study's reliance
on existing literature, archival documents, and secondary sources may introduce potential biases
or gaps in information.
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archival research, and analysis of primary documents to gain insights into the Ghanaian political
crisis and ECOWAS interventions. By triangulating data from multiple sources and employing
rigorous analytical frameworks, the researcher aimed to mitigate potential biases and enhance the
validity of findings. Furthermore, the researcher adopted a critical approach to data interpretation,
acknowledging the complexities and nuances of the Ghanaian political crisis and ECOWAS's
role therein. By considering alternative perspectives and engaging in reflexivity, the researcher
The research methodology for this study relies primarily on secondary sources to gather
information and insights into the Ghanaian political crisis from 1979 to 1993 and the role of the
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in addressing it. Secondary sources
include scholarly articles, books, reports, and archival documents related to the political history
of Ghana, regional politics in West Africa, ECOWAS interventions, and peacebuilding efforts.
the historical context, dynamics, and key events of the Ghanaian political crisis. This involves
analyzing academic journals, books, and other publications that offer insights into the causes,
actors, and consequences of the crisis. Additionally, the researcher reviews reports and
interventions in West Africa during the specified timeframe. These documents provide valuable
information on the organization's policies, strategies, and activities related to conflict resolution
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Isaac et al, in The Role of ECOWAS on Peace and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria and
Gambia.¹⁷ The article delves into the political conflicts that have unfolded in Nigeria and Gambia,
examining the root causes and dynamics at play in each context. It sheds light on the role of the
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in maintaining peace and security
across the West African region, drawing on examples of ECOWAS-led peacekeeping efforts in
countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Cote d'Ivoire. The findings of the article reveal
significant factors contributing to political instability in Nigeria and Gambia. In Nigeria, tensions
between the North and South are identified as a major driver of insecurity, exacerbated by the
activities of groups like Boko Haram. Meanwhile, in Gambia, the actions of President Jammeh,
particularly his refusal to accept election results, are highlighted as triggers for political conflict.
The article advocates for the implementation of early warning mechanisms to detect and address
In another work by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS): the
Challenges to the Implementation of the Protocol on the Free Movement of Goods, Persons and
Establishment,¹⁸ The article explores the challenges hindering the implementation of the
'ECOWAS' Protocol on the Free Movement of goods, services, persons, and capital. It identifies
various obstacles such as the absence of political commitment, administrative barriers, civil
conflicts, wars, and terrorism as significant barriers to the effective implementation of the
Protocol across West Africa. In its findings, the paper underscores how these challenges
undermine the objectives of the Protocol and impede the free flow of goods, services, persons,
and capital within the ECOWAS region. The article sheds light on the complexities and realities
that hinder regional integration efforts in West Africa. Moreover, the article offers
recommendations aimed at addressing these obstacles and enhancing the prospects for successful
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implementation of the Protocol. It emphasizes the need for ECOWAS leaders to prioritize efforts
mitigate administrative restrictions, and address underlying issues such as civil conflicts, wars,
and terrorism.
Amadu, in ECOWAS and the limits of peacemaking in West Africa,¹⁹ the article discusses
the historical context preceding the establishment of the Economic Community of West African
States (ECOWAS) and the significant impact it has had on the region since its inception. It
highlights the prevalence of authoritarian regimes and political instability in West Africa before
ECOWAS, emphasizing the need for a regional organization to address governance, peace, and
with mitigating the effects of Cold War rivalries through diplomatic efforts and mediation. The
member states is underscored as a crucial achievement over the past four decades. Additionally,
the article acknowledges the influence of external models, particularly the European Union (EU),
in inspiring and encouraging West African leaders to pursue regional integration efforts. The
economic success of the BRICS countries is also cited as further motivation for regional
Gills in The Role of ECOWAS in Managing Political Crisis and Conflict The Cases of
Guinea and Guinea-Bissau,²⁰ delves into the involvement of the Economic Community of West
African States (ECOWAS) in addressing political and security challenges in Guinea and Guinea-
protocols for conflict prevention and resolution, including dispatching missions, appointing
mediators, and condemning human rights violations. However, the passage also highlights the
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limitations and challenges faced by ECOWAS in addressing the root causes of instability in both
countries. Despite temporary efforts to calm tensions, the recurrent crises underscore the
difficulty of building legitimate and capable states capable of ensuring citizen security. This
involves far-reaching reforms in the security sector, curtailing military involvement in crime, and
Furthermore, the article underscores the importance of substantial investment in human and
stresses the need for prioritizing actions and strategies based on imminent threats to peace and
security while avoiding a proliferation of disparate initiatives that could dilute strategic efforts.
In addition, the passage emphasizes the role of external partners in supporting ECOWAS's
efforts while also advocating for strengthening national institutions and ensuring accountability
holding political leaders accountable and preserving peace and security within the region.
Furthermore, Ani and Amusan, in ECOWAS, Peace and Conflict Management in West
Africa,²¹ the article discusses the establishment of the Economic Community of West African
States (ECOWAS) in the twentieth century with the aim of fostering cooperation to promote
peace and sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights the paradox of persistent
civil wars, internal conflicts, and terrorism hindering the achievement of peace despite
ECOWAS's objectives. Furthermore, the article explores the challenges facing regional peace in
Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, and Cote d'Ivoire, while also noting the policies and
programs implemented to address these challenges. Finally, the article calls for a multi-track
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approach to tackle various issues such as terrorism, revolution, multi-dimensional conflicts, and
political crises in the region. It suggests that a comprehensive strategy involving multiple levels
of intervention is necessary to effectively combat these challenges and achieve lasting peace and
Likewise, according to Adewale in the politics of succession crisis in West Africa: the case
of Togo,²² the article discusses the establishment of the Economic Community of West African
States (ECOWAS) in the twentieth century with the aim of fostering cooperation to promote
peace and sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights the paradox of persistent
civil wars, internal conflicts, and terrorism hindering the achievement of peace despite
ECOWAS's objectives. Furthermore, it explores the challenges facing regional peace in West
efforts. It acknowledges ECOWAS's efforts in managing conflicts in countries like Sierra Leone,
Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, and Cote d'Ivoire, while also noting the policies and programs
implemented to address these challenges. Finally, it calls for a multi-track approach to tackle
various issues such as terrorism, revolution, multi-dimensional conflicts, and political crises in
the region. It suggests that a comprehensive strategy involving multiple levels of intervention is
necessary to effectively combat these challenges and achieve lasting peace and development in
West Africa.
The paper delves into several interconnected themes regarding the role of the ECOWAS
hindering the Parliament's effectiveness despite the presence of external peacekeeping efforts, it
sheds light on the prevalent security issues gripping West Africa, ranging from political conflicts
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in countries like Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, to religious and terrorist attacks in
Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Mali. The article presents findings indicating that insecurity in the
democracy promotion, and governance enhancement within member states. However, despite
these contributions, the article identifies various factors inhibiting the Parliament's effectiveness,
xenophobia, and external interference. The article offers recommendations to address these
economic and defense ties with former colonial powers, and empowering the Parliament with
Finally, Isiaka, in Managing Arms in Peace Processes: ECOWAS and the West African
Civil Conflicts,²⁴ discusses the issue of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) proliferation in
Africa, particularly focusing on West Africa. The article also examines the significance of
SALW proliferation in the context of West African security and the efforts of the Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address this issue through initiatives such as
Furthermore, the article raises questions regarding the effectiveness of the ECOWAS
Moratorium and the challenges associated with controlling SALW during peace support
operations and peace processes in West Africa. It also explores the role of ECOWAS as a sub-
regional organization in maintaining regional peace and security, tracing its evolution from an
institution for economic integration to one involved in regional security issues. Additionally, the
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article discusses the establishment of the ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG)
and its role in peacekeeping efforts in countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Cote d'Ivoire.
..
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Notes and References
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13. Adisa, J. "Nigeria in ECOMOG: Political Undercurrents and the Burden of Community
Spirit." In Jide, Owoeye (ed.), Nigeria in International Institutions. Ibadan: College Press
Ltd, 1993.
14. Dorina, A.et. al., Appraising Efforts to Improve Conflict Management in West Africa.
Accra, Ghana: IPA, ECOWAS, and KAIPTC Conference Report, 2004.
15. Ibid
16. Ibid
17. Isaac T. T et al., The Role of ECOWAS on Peace and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria and
Gambia," IRA-International Journal of Management and Social Sciences, Vol. 12, No.3,
2018, pp.55-61.
18. Esekumemu,.V. C., The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS): the
Challenges to the Implementation of the Protocol on the Free Movement of Goods,
Persons and Establishment, Developing Country Studies, Vol. 4, No 3, 2014, pp. 124-131.
19. Amadu. S. "ECOWAS and the limits of peacemaking in West Africa," Journal of African
Studies, Vol. 6, No.2, 2020.
20. Gills. Y. O., The Role of ECOWAS in Managing Political Crisis and Conflict The Cases
of Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, Abuja: Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, 2010.
21. Ani. J. A., and Amusan. L., "ECOWAS, Peace and Conflict Management in West Africa,'
Journal of African Foreign Affairs, Vol. 3, No. 1, 2016, pp. 19-32
22. Adewale., B. The Politics of Succession Crisis in West Africa: the Case of Togo,
International Journal on World Peace, Vol. 25, No. 2, 2008, pp. 33-55
23. Kolawole, W. L., The role of ECOWAS Parliament in combating insecurity in West
Africa," Dissertation, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic
Studies/University of Benin Post Graduate Programmes, March 2021.
24. Isiaka. A. B., Managing Arms in Peace Processes: ECOWAS and the West African Civil
Conflicts," 2009, available online @www.africanos.eu (Accessed on March, 24, 2024)
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