By Ruth Serwaa Asare
As political unrest continues to grip parts of West Africa, Ghanaian security consultant Richard Kumadoe has weighed in on the recent coup attempt in Benin, urging vigilance and reflection on regional security trends.
Speaking on 95.7 Radio Ghana’s morning show today, Kumadoe noted that while African Union and regional bodies were aware of the unrest, respect for national sovereignty remains paramount. “When the trouble was blowing up in Benin, everyone was aware.
African Union, the parties involved and the only thing different is, knowing very well that there’s respect for sovereignty and governance. So if there’s respect for sovereignty, what are you doing there then? What are you doing there?” he asked, stressing the importance of respecting national borders and governance structures.
Kumadoe also highlighted a worrying pattern in West Africa. Over the past few years, coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea Bissau appear to follow a new trend. Unlike past coups characterized by widespread violence, some recent military takeovers have seen minimal bloodshed, with some leaders even gaining public support.
“It looks like there’s a trend moving away from the usual coup we knew in the past,” he explained. “We’ve seen what happened in Burkina Faso, in Benin, and even in Niger. The military will push away political figures, but it’s still considered a coup. And some people are arguing there’s justification for it.”
When asked if Ghana should be concerned about these developments, Kumadoe emphasized vigilance. “It is closer when your neighbor’s house is on fire. Our foreign policy says that we are friends of all, enemies of none. So you can say this one is wrong, but we must be aware of the ripple effects in the region.”
The security consultant also reflected on the role of West African leaders, who are currently in Côte d’Ivoire for President Ouattara inauguration, noting that the Benin situation is likely a concern for them. “I don’t think they can sleep easy, considering what’s happening next door,” he said.
Kumadoe’s remarks underscore the growing challenges of governance and security in West Africa, urging Ghana and its neighbors to learn from unfolding events and to stay alert to evolving trends in regional politics.
