Critical Assessment of Military Interventions in Governance in West Africa: Identifying the Root Causes

Abstract

This study explores critical factors of military interventions in Governance in West Africa. The study uses case studies research design and interviews as a method of data collection to examine critical factors that cause military interventions in governance in West Africa. The findings show a lack of democratic governance and unemployment as factors responsible for Military intervention in Governance in West Africa. Consequently, the study found that Military coups continue to be on the rise in West Africa with the sub-region witnessing 5 successful coups from 2020 -2023. While the study acknowledges the significant rise of military intervention in governance in West Africa, the study in contrast found that military intervention does not necessarily provide any sustainable alternative for democratic governance and development in West Africa. The study concludes that military intervention in governance leads to further underdevelopment in West Africa and negates the democratic values of multiparty democracy and periodic elections. The study recommends strengthening of principles of democratic governance and enhancing economic opportunities for its citizenry as a means to control incising military intervention in West African governance.