Benin Republic failed coup a direct threat to West Africa’s democratic gains – Nigerian Govt

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin, describing the incident as a dangerous assault on democratic order in the neighbouring West African nation.

Gunfire rang out early Sunday near President Patrice Talon’s residence, with armoured vehicles deployed around the presidential palace in Cotonou.

A group of soldiers, operating under the name Military Committee for Refoundation, announced on state television that Talon had been removed and that all political institutions had been dissolved.

However, Benin’s presidency later confirmed that President Talon was safe and that loyal forces had regained control of key state facilities, effectively thwarting the plot.

In a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja said it received reports of the attempted coup “with grave concern”, commending Beninese authorities for moving swiftly to safeguard democratic institutions.

“The failed attempt amounts to a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people,” the statement read, noting that Benin has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peaceful political transitions.

Nigeria also applauded the professionalism of Benin’s security forces, whose prompt and coordinated action “defended the constitutional order and guaranteed the safety of the President”, ensuring the bid to subvert democracy “was decisively repelled”.

Reaffirming its own stance, the federal government said it remains committed to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law, principles it described as essential to peace and stability across West Africa.

“Unconstitutional changes of government are unacceptable and retrogressive,” the statement continued, warning that such actions threaten decades of democratic and socio-economic progress across the sub-region.

Nigeria, a leading voice within ECOWAS and the African Union, urged all member states and partners to condemn the attempted coup and stand by the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, as well as the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

Abuja assured Cotonou of its “full support and continued cooperation” as both countries work towards strengthening democracy, peace, and prosperity in the region.

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