Ndume Slams ECOWAS Leadership: "Former Presidents Could Have Resolved the Crisis

Senator Ali Ndume has criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leadership, particularly President Bola Tinubu, over the recent crisis in the region. Speaking on Arise Television, Ndume expressed his disappointment over the handling of the situation in countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, which ultimately led to their decision to leave the regional group.

According to Ndume, the crisis was avoidable, and ECOWAS leadership failed to take timely and effective measures to address the issues. He believes that former Nigerian leaders such as Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, Olusegun Obasanjo, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Yakubu Gowon could have played a crucial role in resolving the crisis. "These respected elders have the experience and wisdom to have helped avoid the exit of the three countries from ECOWAS," he said.

Ndume believes that President Tinubu has been "cocooned" by his advisors, which may have contributed to the poor handling of the situation. He expressed sadness that the crisis occurred during Tinubu's chairmanship of ECOWAS, saying it has dealt a blow to the region's unity. "It has done a blow," he said, "Historically, it will go down that it was during his chairmanship that this thing happened."

*The Crisis in West Africa*

The crisis in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali has been ongoing for several years, with various factors contributing to the instability in the region. ECOWAS has been working to find a solution, but the recent exit of the three countries has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the regional group.

*Ndume's Concerns*

- The crisis in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali was not properly handled by ECOWAS.

- The exit of the three countries weakens West Africa's unity.

- Former Nigerian leaders could have helped resolve the crisis.

- President Tinubu's leadership of ECOWAS has been ineffective in addressing the crisis.

*Ndume's Call*

- Respected former presidents should be involved in finding solutions to the crisis.

- ECOWAS leadership needs to be more effective in handling regional challenges.

- The region needs to come together to find a lasting solution to the crisis.

*The Way Forward*

Ndume's comments have sparked a debate about the role of ECOWAS in promoting regional stability and unity. As the region moves forward, it is essential to learn from the past and work towards finding lasting solutions to the crisis. The involvement of respected former leaders could be a step in the right direction.