Former Nigerian Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has been named the head of ECOWAS’ election observation mission to Côte d’Ivoire, where presidential polls are set to hold on October 25.
The announcement, made by the regional bloc on Sunday, comes at a time of growing political tension in the Francophone West African nation.
The ECOWAS team, which includes respected personalities from across the region, will be on ground from October 19 to 29 to ensure the election is free, fair, and peaceful.
Côte d’Ivoire’s democracy is once again being tested. The country’s 83-year-old President, Alassane Ouattara, is seeking a controversial fourth term – a move that has stirred fresh political debates and concerns about the nation’s democratic future.
Though Ouattara had earlier said he would step down after his third term, he’s back on the ballot, citing constitutional changes. The opposition is not taking it lightly, and tensions have been simmering beneath the surface.
It’s against this backdrop that ECOWAS is deploying its observers, with Osinbajo at the helm, to help douse tension and reassure the Ivorian public of a credible process.
Osinbajo’s Mission
As head of mission, Osinbajo will engage top political players, civil society, and electoral bodies in Côte d’Ivoire. His team is also expected to work with other international and domestic observers to evaluate the conduct of the polls.
According to ECOWAS, this move is part of its long-standing effort to promote peace, stability, and credible elections in the region—a mission that has become even more crucial in recent years as some West African nations grapple with constitutional crises, coups, and disputed elections.
Osinbajo, who has built a reputation as a stabilizing figure during his time in office, is expected to bring his diplomatic skill to bear in this high-stakes assignment.
