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The Federal Government of Nigeria today declared that the swift defeat of a coup attempt in the Republic of Benin underscores the enduring strength of democracy across West Africa. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the collaborative efforts that restored constitutional order, emphasizing Nigeria's unwavering commitment to democratic values.
Early on Sunday, coup plotters led by Colonel Pascal Tigri seized the National TV station in Benin and announced the overthrow of President Patrice Talon. They suspended democratic institutions, posing a grave threat to the nation's 35-year-old democracy. However, loyal forces in Benin, supported by Nigeria, quickly regained control and neutralized the insurgents.
In response to urgent requests from the Benin government, President Tinubu authorized Nigerian Air Force jets to secure Benin's airspace and deploy ground troops for targeted operations. These actions, coordinated under Beninese command, dislodged the plotters from key sites, including the National TV and a military camp. Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede confirmed that Nigerian forces fully complied with the directives, acting within the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
President Tinubu stated, "The Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as defenders of constitutional order in Benin, at the invitation of its government. This intervention not only stabilized our neighbor but also reinforced our shared democratic ideals since 1999. Nigeria remains firmly with the people of Benin in upholding democracy."