President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their rapid intervention in the Republic of Benin, where a coup attempt threatened to upend the country’s 35-year democratic rule early Sunday morning.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Beninese government made two urgent requests for assistance following an assault by soldiers led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, who seized the National Television station and a military camp, announcing the suspension of democratic institutions.
In response, President Tinubu authorised the deployment of Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to secure Benin’s airspace and support efforts to dislodge the coup plotters from key locations. A further request saw Nigeria send additional air assets for surveillance and rapid response missions, all under Benin’s operational coordination.
The Benin authorities also sought Nigerian ground troops for missions strictly approved by their command structure, aimed at protecting constitutional institutions and containing armed groups. Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all requests had been carried out, with Nigerian forces now operating in Benin.
The coup attempt was eventually quelled as loyal government forces, supported by Nigeria, regained control of the National TV station after several hours.
Following the restoration of order, President Tinubu praised the military for acting decisively and in line with regional protocols.
“Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government,” he said. “They acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and demonstrated unwavering commitment to democratic values.”
Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with the government and people of the Republic of Benin, emphasising the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions across the region.
