…As ECOWAS Condemns Attempted Coup
The Nigerian military has deployed fighter aircraft in the Benin Republic following reports of a military coup that claimed to have toppled President Patrice Talon on Sunday.
According to security sources, the aircraft took off from Lagos and was sighted operating within the Benin Republic’s airspace as Nigeria intensified aerial surveillance to monitor the fast-developing political and security situation in the neighbouring country.
A senior security official noted that the deployment was a precautionary move aimed at assessing potential regional security threats and safeguarding Nigeria’s national interests.
“The aircraft have already arrived in the Benin Republic. Nigeria is closely monitoring developments and evaluating potential risks. This is not an offensive operation but a strategic response to unfolding events,” the source said.
Reports had it that the takeover in Benin Republic was led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who announced the dissolution of state institutions and assumed full military control.
The group behind the reported coup, identifying itself as the Military Committee for Rebuilding, announced the suspension of the November 2025 Constitution, dissolution of all state institutions, suspension of political party activities, and the closure of land, sea, and air borders until further notice.
Nigeria shares a long and porous border with the Republic of Benin, making developments in the country a direct security concern for Abuja.
Though the Nigerian government hadn’t issued an official statement. However, military sources said surveillance operations would continue “until the situation becomes clearer.”
In a related development, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned in strongest terms the attempt to remove President Talon.
ECOWAS in a press statement on Sunday said it frowned at the coup attempt which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said had been foiled.
The statement from the regional group reads, “ECOWAS Commission has received with consternation reports of an attempted military take-over in the Republic of Benin.
“ECOWAS strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin.”
The regional body calls for the full respect of the Constitution of Benin and salutes the efforts of the Government and the Republican Army in bringing the situation under control.
“ECOWAS holds the leaders of the plot both individually and collectively responsible for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action.
“ECOWAS will support the Government and the people in all forms necessary, including the deployment of the regional standby force, to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”
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