The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is urging protesters in Nigeria to take President Bola Tinubu up on his offer to talk things through. In a statement released Tuesday, ECOWAS expressed its dismay over the violent turn the protests have taken, especially in the country’s northern region.
The regional body said it has been keeping a close eye on the protests and regrets the reports of violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property. ECOWAS offered its condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and expressed sympathy for the Nigerian government and its people.
ECOWAS praised President Tinubu’s address to the nation on August 4, 2024 and encouraged all parties to come together for some constructive dialogue. Protesters had defied Tinubu’s plea for suspension of the protests, saying he did not address their demands.
ECOWAS said dialogue was the best way to resolve everyone’s grievances and keep the peace in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region. President Tinubu was just re-elected as chairman of ECOWAS on July 7, 2024.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
