The Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS) has drawn the attention of the international community to the escalating violence perpetrated by terrorist groups in several countries across the West African region, including Nigeria. These groups, with diverse ideological motivations, have been targeting innocent civilians regardless of their religious, ethnic, or demographic backgrounds. This statement was made in a press notice dated 4th November 2025.
The press notice mentioned that the independent reports have confirmed over the years, terrorist violence in the region does not discriminate based on gender, religion, ethnicity, or age. Victims have included Muslims, Christians, and adherents of other faiths, demonstrating the indiscriminate nature of these attacks.
ECOWAS strongly condemns the spread of false narratives claiming that these terrorist groups are targeting specific religious or ethnic groups. ‘’Such claims, including assertions of genocide, are baseless and have been proven false. These dangerous allegations only serve to exacerbate insecurity and fuel division within communities, undermining social cohesion in the region.’ ECOWAS said.
‘’ECOWAS calls upon the United Nations and all international partners to provide unwavering support to member states in their efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms. It is crucial that the global community remains united in rejecting these divisive and unfounded claims.’ The press notice revealed.
The people of West Africa stand united in the face of terrorism, and ECOWAS calls on the international community to stand with the countries in the region as they fight to protect all communities from the growing threat of violent extremism.