GABON COUP: “Africa Needs to Address Root Causes of Coups, Not Just the Symptoms” – Atiku

Former Vice President of the Federal republic of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar in response to the recent surge of coups across the African continent, has urged African leaders to concentrate on tackling the root causes rather than just the visible symptoms.

Atiku conveyed this message through a post on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) on Thursday. He was reacting to the eighth coup in Africa since 2020, which occurred in Gabon.

He criticized the coup in the Central African nation, emphasizing the importance of upholding democracy in Africa.

Atiku stressed, “We must condemn the coup in Gabon. Democracy and its governance must be maintained as the favored system, and we should make every effort to establish, foster, and sustain it.”

Drawing a parallel with a similar situation in Niger Republic, Atiku recommended that the ECOWAS and African Union authorities engage in diplomatic efforts to facilitate the return of soldiers to their barracks.

Pointing out the worrisome trend of eight military takeovers in Central and West Africa since 2020, Atiku called for introspection.

He proposed a shift in focus from addressing the surface-level issues to addressing the underlying problems that give rise to coups.

The recent coup in Gabon resulted in political turmoil as the long-standing ruling family was removed from power shortly after the president was declared the winner of a disputed election.

The former president, Ali Bongo Ondimba, had faced allegations of election manipulation and corruption during his 14-year rule over the oil-rich nation.

The capital city witnessed celebratory scenes after the coup, with residents embracing the soldiers on the streets.

However, many uncertainties remain, including the house arrest of Bongo and the arrest of his son, border closures, and a seemingly inactive government.

Global leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed concern and disapproval of the coup, cautioning their citizens in Gabon to stay indoors…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>