ECOWAS urges restraint in Venezuela crisis, calls for respect of sovereignty

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep concern over recent developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, following the reported abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in the early hours of 3 January 2026.

In a statement issued from Abuja on 4 January 2026, ECOWAS acknowledged the right of states to combat international crimes, including terrorism and drug trafficking, but stressed that such measures must not violate the sovereignty or territorial integrity of other nations.

The statement said:

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The West African regional body also aligned itself with the African Union’s statement of 3 January 2026, calling for restraint and an inclusive dialogue among the Venezuelan people.

ECOWAS reaffirmed its solidarity with Venezuela, emphasising that all states must respect the country’s independence and territorial integrity. “We express our support to the people as they shape the future of their country through an inclusive process,” the statement added.

Ghana has similarly expressed alarm over the situation, reiterating its opposition to unilateral military interventions. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government condemned the abduction of President Maduro and stressed that “only the Venezuelan people should freely determine their political and democratic future.”

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The statement further called for the immediate release of President Maduro and his wife, highlighting Ghana’s long-standing commitment to defending sovereignty and upholding international law.

The unfolding crisis has drawn global attention, with both ECOWAS and Ghana urging the international community to exercise caution and ensure that diplomacy, rather than force, guides the resolution of the situation in Venezuela.