ECOWAS deploys standby force as failed coup rocks Benin Republic
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has deployed a standby force to Benin Republic following an attempted military coup aimed at ousting President Patrice Talon in the early hours of Sunday.
Reports indicated that a faction of soldiers, allegedly led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, appeared on state television claiming to have removed the president from office and dissolved all state institutions.
The group read a statement pledging to usher in a “new era of fraternity, justice, and work” for the Beninese people.
The attempted coup began with an attack on President Talon’s official residence in the capital, Porto-Novo, and gunfire was reportedly heard at Camp Guezo, near the president’s home.
The French Embassy issued an advisory urging its citizens to remain indoors for safety.
However, loyalist forces quickly rallied to protect the president and neutralize the threat, successfully preventing the overthrow and preserving constitutional order.
In response, ECOWAS condemned the attempted takeover as an “unconstitutional move” and pledged full support for the Beninese government and army.
In an official release, the regional bloc warned that the plot’s leaders would be held accountable for any loss of life or property.
ECOWAS confirmed that a regional standby force, including troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana, had been dispatched to assist Benin in maintaining democracy and territorial integrity.
The Nigerian government also issued a strong condemnation of the coup attempt. Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa stated that the attempt was a direct assault on democracy and constitutional order.
He applauded the Beninese security forces for their professionalism and swift action in defending the president and national institutions.
“Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin,” the statement read, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, good governance, and regional stability.
The ECOWAS Commission reiterated that the deployment aligns with its 1999 Protocol on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security, signaling the bloc’s readiness to support member states in defending democratic governance.
As tensions eased, ECOWAS and Nigeria called for calm, urging all parties in Benin to channel political discourse through peaceful and constitutional means, reaffirming the commitment of West African nations to uphold democracy.
