ECOWAS Defence/ image by Gambian Nigerian News
The ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) says it has taken note of media reports and social media publications alleging that members of the CCDS delegation to Guinea-Bissau were involved in, or subjected to, an attempted bribery during the delegation’s official mission to the country from 19 to 23 June 2026.
“The CCDS categorically rejects these allegations as entirely false, unfounded and without any factual basis. At no time during the mission was any member of the delegation approached with, offered, or involved in any act of bribery or improper inducement” a release from the committee said.
The release stated that no complaint, report, or evidence relating to such allegations was brought to the attention of the delegation, the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea -Bissau (ESSMGB), or the Bissau Royal Hotel where the delegation was accommodated.
The CCDS noted in its release that there are public clarifications issued by both the Transitional National Council of Guinea-Bissau(The Local Daily read a publication from The Gambia Journal) and the management of the Bissau Royal Hotel, which have refuted the allegations and confirmed the absence of any evidence supporting the claims. The Hotel further confirmed that no complaint was received from the ECOWAS CCDS delegation and that the delegation’s stay and engagements proceeded normally and satisfactorily.
The delegation successfully achieved its objectives, including consultations with Guinea-Bissau authorities and relevant stakeholders on the implementation of the revised mandate of ESSMGB; its operational requirements; the planned drawdown and withdrawal process; and other matters relating to peace, security and stability in Guinea-Bissau.
The CCDS remains firmly committed to the principles of professionalism, integrity,transparency and accountability in the conduct of all ECOWAS activities. The delegation therefore urges all stakeholders and media practitioners to exercise due diligence and adhere to the highest standards of accuracy and responsibility when reporting on matters of regional peace and security.
The CCDS expresses its appreciation to the Authorities of Guinea-Bissau, ESSMGB leadership, and all stakeholders for their cooperation and support throughout the mission.
