The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has deployed its standby forces, including Nigerian troops, to Benin after authorities successfully foiled an attempted coup. The move aims to support the government and safeguard the country’s constitutional order.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force operated at Benin’s request, securing airspace and conducting rapid missions in coordination with the Beninese government. Ground troops from Nigeria are also in the country to counter armed groups and reinforce security.
Earlier, a group of military officers had seized the national television station and declared the deposition of President Patrice Talon, appointing Lt.-Col. Pascal Tigri as head of a “military reconstruction commission.” Explosions were reported in Cotonou, the country’s port city and administrative center.
President Talon later addressed the nation, confirming that the situation was under control and thanking the armed forces for their loyalty. He warned that those behind the coup would face justice.
ECOWAS emphasized that the intervention was under its mandate to protect constitutional governance and prevent instability in the region.