When it comes to socio-political change Revolution isn't much of an option for West African states, especially the multi-ethnic and multi-religious states.
The reason is no more than that most conflicts (regardless of how small) are given ethno-religious interpretations thus its very easy for a REVOLUTION to spiral into a form of religious and ethnic crisis or even ethnic cleansing particularly when a particular ethnic group or religious Group is seen as controlling the affairs/resources of the state.
Furthermore a revolution requires that the existing structures be torn down, offcourse with relative opposition from the existing powers which leads to a form of struggle (most times armed struggle). This action leads to massive loss of lives, property and if successful demands rebuilding the torn-down structures which pose a great challenge to post-revolution countries.
West Africa just has to find another way for political and social change other than a revolution. It appears sad but that's the reality we find ourselves in.
Ahmed Yousuf, Kogi State University. Nigeria.