W. E. Orukpe

Military coups have re-emerged as a major challenge to regional security and democratic governance in West Africa in the 21st century. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger have experienced repeated unconstitutional changes of government, raising concerns about political instability, weak institutions, insecurity, and the declining trust in democratic leadership. This study examines the causes, implications, and regional security consequences of military coups in West Africa. The study adopts a qualitative research approach using secondary sources such as journals, textbooks, reports, and online publications. It explores factors including poor governance, corruption, electoral irregularities, economic hardship, terrorism, and external influence as major drivers of military intervention in politics. The study further evaluates the role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other regional bodies in managing conflicts and restoring democratic order. Findings reveal that recurring coups undermine regional integration, economic development, peace, and security efforts within the sub-region. The study concludes that strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, addressing insecurity, and improving socio-economic conditions are essential to reducing the occurrence of military coups and enhancing regional stability in West Africa.

This study explores the nature and dynamics of diplomatic relations between the Ukwuani and Urhobo people in pre-colonial Nigeria. It examines how both groups, through geographical proximity and shared socio-economic interests, developed systems of interaction that fostered peaceful coexistence, mutual cooperation, and conflict resolution. The study argues that diplomacy in this context was not formalized in the modern sense but was embedded in indigenous institutions such as kinship ties, marriage alliances, trade partnerships, and the use of emissaries and traditional rulers. The research further analyzes the role of trade particularly in agricultural produce and local crafts as a major driver of diplomatic engagement, alongside cultural exchanges that reinforced inter-group solidarity. It also highlights mechanisms for resolving disputes, including the intervention of elders, councils, and ritual practices that maintained balance and order. Despite occasional conflicts, these indigenous diplomatic strategies ensured relative stability and continuity in relations. The study concludes that Ukwuani–Urhobo relations in the pre-colonial era reflect a sophisticated system of indigenous diplomacy rooted in reciprocity, respect, and shared values. It underscores the relevance of these traditional practices as a foundation for understanding inter-ethnic relations and conflict management in contemporary Nigerian society