Former UN Permanent Representative for Nigeria, Prof. Tijani Muhammadu Bande, has attributed the wave of military coups in West Africa to flawed leadership, failed governance, and weakened electoral systems. Bande made this observation during an event in Ilorin, Kwara State, organized by the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellows Alumni Association of Nigeria (COSFAN) to celebrate the 80th birthday of Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking at the unveiling of a book titled *Readings in Diplomacy, Democracy, Peace and Development*, Bande noted that desperation for change, often fueled by electoral malpractice and concentrated power, has provided justification for military takeovers in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
“Most constitutional amendments in West Africa aim to expand presidential powers, yet these changes rarely improve citizens’ lives. Flawed elections and poor transparency continue to undermine governance, paving the way for military interventions,” Bande remarked. He also highlighted the erosion of traditional values and increasing corruption as factors worsening inequality and societal dysfunction.
The celebrant, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, reflected on his journey from a small town in Kwara State to becoming an influential diplomat and longest-serving Nigerian ambassador to the United Nations. Describing himself as an “accidental diplomat,” Gambari expressed gratitude for his impact on international peace and development.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, lauded Gambari’s contributions to global diplomacy, urging attendees to study the book in his honor as a guide to addressing modern governance challenges.
COSFAN National President, Dr. Ekundayo Samuel, and other speakers hailed Gambari as a symbol of excellence and a lifelong advocate for democracy, peace, and global unity.
