Nigeria Condemns Attempted Coup in Benin Republic, Calls It a “Direct Attack on Democracy

 

The Nigerian government has issued a strong condemnation of Sunday’s attempted forceful takeover of power in neighbouring Benin Republic.

Gunfire erupted on Sunday near the home of President Patrice Talon as armoured vehicles from the presidential guard intensified security patrols in the area.

A group identifying itself as the Military Committee for Refoundation claimed it had removed President Talon and all elected officials, declaring the dissolution of all state institutions.

However, the presidency quickly dismissed the claims, confirming that President Talon was safe and that loyalist forces had restored control.

In a statement released on Sunday by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Government expressed that it was “deeply concerned” by reports of the attempted power grab.

Nigeria praised the swift response of the Beninese authorities in safeguarding the country’s democratic institutions and restoring stability.

The government condemned the failed coup as “a blatant attack on democracy and constitutional governance,” stressing that it undermined the will of the Beninese people, who have consistently upheld peaceful and lawful political processes.

“This act of destabilisation amounts to a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people, who remain firmly committed to orderly and legitimate political transitions,” the statement said.

“We applaud the bravery and professionalism demonstrated by the Beninese security forces in safeguarding the constitutional order and ensuring the President’s safety. Their swift and disciplined actions were crucial in thwarting this attempt to undermine democracy.

“Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law  principles that form the foundation of peace, development, and stability across the region.

“Unconstitutional changes of government are unacceptable and represent a dangerous setback that threatens the hard-won democratic achievements and socio-economic progress of our sub-region.”

“As a committed member of ECOWAS and the African Union, Nigeria urges all member states and the broader international community to join in condemning this incident and reaffirming our collective dedication to the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, as well as the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance,” the statement noted.

Nigeria also appealed to all stakeholders in Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and resolve political disagreements exclusively through peaceful and constitutional means.

The Federal Government reiterated its steadfast support for Benin, vowing to continue working together to strengthen democratic institutions and advance stability, peace, and prosperity for both countries and the wider West African sub-region.