The Senate on Tuesday approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of regional efforts to restore calm and constitutional order following last weekend’s attempted military takeover in the country.
The approval was announced by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary after lawmakers considered the president’s request in the Committee of the Whole, in line with constitutional provisions governing external military engagements.
The request was unanimously endorsed by the lawmakers, granting full parliamentary authorisation for Nigeria’s participation in the regional security operation.
Akpabio described the decision as timely and necessary, warning that political instability in any neighbouring country could easily spill into the wider West African sub region.
An injury to one is an injury to all, the Senate President said, adding that Nigeria has an obligation to support neighbouring states under the framework of the Economic Community of West African States.
The Senate is expected to formally transmit its approval to President Tinubu immediately.
In his letter to the upper chamber, Tinubu noted that Nigeria bears a historic responsibility to assist Benin under existing ECOWAS security arrangements. He warned that the situation required urgent external intervention to prevent further deterioration.
The attempted coup occurred on Sunday when a faction of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation appeared on national television to announce the removal of President Patrice Talon from office.
The move was swiftly contained as loyal forces of the Beninese military regained control of key areas. Sources close to the government confirmed that order had been restored across the country.
Following the failed takeover, ECOWAS announced the deployment of its standby force to support the Government of Benin and preserve the country’s territorial integrity.
