The West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS) has held a press engagement on the state of democracy in West Africa with journalists across the sub-region. 

Held at the Center for Democracy and Development—West Africa in Abuja, Nigeria, the event brought together CSOs from across the sub-region, the media, and pro-democracy actors. It was also an opportunity to educate, inform, and share facts on West Africa’s democratic decline with the press. 

Addressing the press, WADEMOS Advocacy Officer Austin Aigbe urged the journalists gathered to remain committed to the tenets of the profession, support CSOs in holding governments accountable, and be curious about the state of affairs in the sub-region concerning democracy.

Download the presentation to the media

CSOs also issued a statement addressing ECOWAS Heads of State and Government ahead of the 65th Summit.

WADEMOS, in collaboration with Tournons la Page (TLP), the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI), and other pro-democracy actors across the region, submitted the statement to the regional body. 

The statement, signed by 50 CSOs and pro-democracy actors in the sub-region, expressed CSOs’ concerns about regional developments and made some recommendations for the Summit’s consideration to strengthen the democratic architecture, improve peace and security, and advance the integration of the peoples.

We captured some moments at the press briefing. Find it here – https://www.flickr.com/photos/196317733@N02/albums/72177720318651925/with/53845884157