The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has said that military interventions in West African governments have had far-reaching and unintended consequences, urging the military to defend democracy.
He stated that the military in democratic countries must adhere to democratic values and uphold the constitutional framework.
According to Musa, the threat of a military takeover of the government must be destroyed because it negates the core responsibilities of the military profession.
He spoke at a meeting of West African Defence Chiefs in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said: “Recent challenges like the military coup in some countries in the region have had unintended consequences and have threatened our collective democratic values.
“This threat must be destroyed as it negates our core responsibilities as military professionals.
“Let me, therefore, use this opportunity to emphasise that, as democratic countries, we in the military must uphold democratic values in line with our various constitutions.”
Musa said the meeting’s objective was to forestall coups and promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in West Africa, benefiting its citizens.
He said: “I am also optimistic that this meeting will assist us in preventing such abnormalities while strengthening our collective resolve to bring about peace and sustainable development for our people.
“Accordingly, the complexity of this meeting demands that we leverage our collective efforts, share intelligence, and coordinate our efforts across borders if we must solve these challenges.
“Thus, collaboration is paramount, and I encourage you to address both the root causes and symptoms of this security in our region.
“It is on this premise that the agenda for this meeting was carefully crafted to focus on critical areas and build on our previous engagements.
“Some of these critical areas include the proposed Air Force Security Support Mission in Sierra Leone and the activation of the Air Force Standby Force against terrorism.
“Other issues in line for deliberations are the development of the Air Force Logistics Depot in Sierra Leone and Air Force Peace Support Operations.
“As we embark on today’s discussions, I must remind us all that your insights and experiences are paramount to support our shared mission.”
According to Musa, the region’s socio-economic development has been severely impacted by terrorism, insurgency, organized crime, violence, and the unconstitutional seizure of power, which also poses a threat to national security.
He said: “Your presence here reflects a shared commitment and dedication towards living in a sustainable environment for the safety and well-being of our people.
“It demonstrates a collective drive to address the various community threats affecting the region through deliberate and concerted collaborative efforts.
“As leaders in our respective armed forces, we are all aware of the threats that confront our nations and regions.
“These threats include terrorism, insurgency, organized crime, violence, education, and, recently, unconstitutional takeover of government and national politics.
“These challenges not only threaten our national security but also undermine the social fabric and socio-economic development of the entire region.”
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