National News
Tinubu hails Nigerian troops for helping thwart coup attempt in Benin Republic
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the bravery and rapid response of Nigeria’s armed forces after they intervened to help safeguard Benin Republic’s democracy during an attempted military takeover on Sunday.
Very Nigerian has confirmed earlier that Coup plotters, led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, had seized the National Television station at dawn and declared the suspension of President Patrice Talon’s government and all democratic institutions.
The move threw the neighbouring country into hours of uncertainty before loyal forces, supported by Nigeria, restored constitutional order.
According to official communication from Cotonou, Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent an urgent Note Verbal requesting immediate Nigerian air support to repel the putschists and secure critical state institutions.
Acting on the request, President Tinubu directed the Nigerian Air Force to enter Benin’s airspace, take control, and assist in flushing out the coup elements who had regrouped around the National TV and a military camp.
Benin later followed with a second appeal seeking the deployment of Nigerian air assets for surveillance, rapid intervention operations, and the presence of Nigerian ground troops under the coordination of Benin’s military command.
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters confirmed that all requests were promptly executed.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said the military acted in line with the directives of the Commander-in-Chief, noting that Nigerian ground forces were already on the ground to support the protection of Benin’s democratic institutions.
After order was restored, President Tinubu praised Nigeria’s military for upholding the principles of democracy both at home and across West Africa.
“Today, our armed forces stood gallantly as defenders of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin, acting on the invitation of its government.”
“They operated strictly within the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. Nigeria remains committed to stabilising our region and promoting democratic values,” Tinubu said.
The President reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with the government and people of Benin, expressing confidence that democracy will continue to thrive in the neighbouring state.
The statement was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
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