Peter Obi has accused ECOWAS of applying double standards in dealing with democratic disruptions among member states following the recent coup in Guinea Bissau. The former Labour Party presidential candidate argued that while ECOWAS was swift to condemn the military arranged “coup glitch” in Guinea Bissau, it remained silent on what he described as a “technology glitch” during Nigeria’s 2023 elections.
In a post controversially titled “Reflecting on the ‘Coup Glitches’ in Guinea Bissau,” Obi urged regional bodies to maintain consistency in defending democracy regardless of the form of disruption. He stressed that both military interventions and technological interference undermine credible elections and deserve condemnation.
Obi also recounted how he was informed that former President Goodluck Jonathan, serving as an election observer in Guinea Bissau, was safe following the coup, reassuring him shortly after returning to Nigeria. According to Obi, the Guinea Bissau election had been peaceful, with only result announcement remaining when the coup was declared, a contrast to Nigeria’s 2023 election disturbances, which many Nigerians felt lacked clarity and transparency.
Obi’s remarks come as ECOWAS suspends Guinea Bissau and condemns the takeover, while regional powers call for a return to constitutional order and protection of democratic norms.
He argued that selective outrage against coups undermines the legitimacy of institutions meant to safeguard democracy in West Africa, a message aimed at preserving electoral integrity and regional trust.
