Reverse of Democracy’s Third Wave: Understanding the Causes of Coups d’état in West Africa in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

Rising coups in West Africa have raised serious socio-economic, political and security concerns across Africa. This paper contributes to debates on the causes of the rising military coup infernos, the effects on the sub-region and its peoples, and suggests remedial actions. The paper found that several factors, including the French colonial policies of Assimilation and Association, neocolonialism, geopolitical undercurrents, non-performance of civilian regimes and corruption enable the phenomenon to fester. The paper suggests that, among other things, in order to reverse the current trend and to avoid such occurrence in the future, African countries must de-link themselves from existing colonial linkages that do not inure to their benefit. Also, agreements and treaties that are inimical to the general wellbeing of the citizens, and which have over the years been used as basis for popular uprising and military takeovers must be carefully renegotiated.