Speaking at the joint de-localised meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament’s Joint Committees in Monrovia, Johnson raised concerns about the misuse of elite forces that have direct control over the commander-in-chief, citing recent events in Niger and Liberia's historical experiences.
Johnson stressed the importance of avoiding political interference in military command and control, particularly when it comes to the selection of heads for specialised units.
He urged ECOWAS member states to advise their governments against interfering with military deployments, as such actions can create instability and lead to coup attempts.
While condemning military coups under any circumstances, Johnson suggested that dialogue is a more effective approach to resolving crises in embattled countries, rather than imposing sanctions.
He highlighted the need for cooperation and communication among member states to address issues related to terrorism and security, especially along shared borders.
Advocating for a collaborative approach, Johnson suggested using the committee of the chief of defence staff to engage in activities that promote regional security and stability.
By encouraging dialogue and cooperation, he believes West African nations can effectively combat terrorism and maintain regional peace.