ECOWAS Commission Reacts, Says It’s Yet To Be Notified About Withdrawal Of Three Countries

By Ayodele Oni

The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS) has reacted to the decision of its three member-countries to pull out of the sub-continental body.

Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic had earlier announced the decision citing uncooperative attitude with the Military Governments in those Countries.

An unsigned statement Sunday evening from Abuja stated that the affected countries have not officially informed the commission about the decision.

The statement 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.

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