The high-level delegation from the Commission of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS Commission) and the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has pledged commitment to entrenching democratic culture in the African Sub-region.
The visit to Freetown, Sierra Leone, followed a plot by certain individuals to acquire arms and disturb the peace and constitutional order in the country.
The country woke up to an alleged attempt coup on Sunday, following moves by some people to break into the country’s military armoury at Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown.
The delegation, which met with President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone on Monday, comprised the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Military Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Udiandeye.
The group conveyed a message of solidarity from the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and President of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The envoys reiterated the commitment of ECOWAS towards preserving democracy and good governance across the sub-region while assuring President Bio of their readiness to support the government and people of Sierra Leone to deepen democracy and good governance.
Their supports they said, are to further consolidate peace and security as well as foster socio-economic development in the sub-region. Receiving the delegation, President Bio expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from key allies across the region and the world.
He emphasized his government’s unwavering commitment to democracy and justice as well as enhancing the well-being and safety of its citizens.
President Bio further stated that Sierra Leone’s leadership position in key institutions across the world would be preserved as the government shall continue to work towards preserving and promoting the priceless peace enjoyed as a country since the end of its unfortunate decade long Civil War 21 years ago.However, the situation was said to be gradually returning to normalcy.
