Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo on Thursday called upon West African leaders to stand firm and protect democracy in the region, following an increase in military coups and attempted deposition of democratically elected governments.

Akufo-Addo made the call at a media briefing in Accra, where Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders are holding an emergency summit in response to the recent coups in the region.

"The resurgence of coup d'états in our region is a matter of grave concern. This evolution challenges the democratic way of life we have chosen. We need to stand firm to protect democracy and freedom in our region," he said.

"I hope that our discussions will provide informed decisions that can reverse the deteriorating political trajectory in our region characterized by democratic setbacks and the fragility of our security systems," said President Akufo-Addo.