THEORIZING RESURGENCE IN MILITARY INTERVENTIONS IN WEST AFRICA: BETWEEN DEMOCRATIC REVERSAL AND DE-NEOCOLONIZATION

Abstract

This paper interrogates the resurgence of military coups in West Africa since 2020. It examines whether this resurgence amounts to democratic reversal, as claimed in some quarters, or whether it represents a calculated attempt to end long years of neocolonial domination in the sub-region. Predicating its arguments on multiple theories, the study explores the structural and proximate factors driving military seizures of power across the region. Case studies of Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger reveal recurring patterns such as jihadist insurgencies, crises of democratic legitimacy, politicized militaries, and weakened regional deterrence. Using qualitative methods and adopting a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, the paper argues that these coups stem from eroded governance institutions, diminished public trust, and continued foreign control over the people and their resources. These dynamics have led to growing diplomatic friction between the neo-colonies and their former colonial powers. The study concludes that the popular narrative of democratic reversal is misleading and neocolonial. Instead, it views these takeovers as part of a bold struggle against the remnants of Western subordination, marked by plunder and exploitation. It proposes coup-proofing strategies ranging from institutional and political reforms to regional and international mechanisms. The paper argues that only through de-neocolonization, institutional resilience, citizen control of resources, and a strengthened ECOWAS can military coups be stopped and democracy consolidated