Tinubu Praises Troops for Helping Thwart Coup in Benin Republic

President Bola Tinubu has commended Nigeria’s Armed Forces for their rapid intervention in supporting Benin Republic to repel an attempted military takeover and restore its 35-year democratic system.

The coup attempt, led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, began early Sunday when mutineers seized the national television station and a military camp, announcing the suspension of democratic institutions and the removal of President Patrice Talon.

At the urgent request of the Beninese government, President Tinubu authorized Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter Benin’s airspace to help neutralize the threat. Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally sought assistance “to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population.”

The request also included surveillance support and the deployment of Nigerian ground troops under Beninese command.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all directives were promptly executed and Nigerian troops are now deployed in Benin.

With Nigerian support, loyalist forces retook the national broadcaster, dislodged the coup plotters, and restored constitutional authority.

Following the return of stability, President Tinubu praised the military for upholding democracy beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“Our armed forces acted within the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values,” he said.