By Desire Emmanuel
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday night directed the immediate deployment of elements of its regional Standby Force to the Republic of Benin.
The force comprises troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Cote d’Ivoire and they are to support the government and the army of Benin Republic to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the country.
The decision was also aimed to bolster security in the country amid growing concerns over threats of violence and cross-border instability in the Sahel region.
No further details on the size or duration of the deployment were disclosed in the official communiqué issued by the regional body.
Some soldiers in Benin Republic announced that they had seized power, ousted President Patrice Talon, suspended the constitution and closed all land borders.
However, a few hours later, Benin’s interior minister, Alassane Seidou, appeared on national TV and announced that the coup has been thwarted.
“Early on Sunday morning, 7 December 2025, a small group of soldiers launched a mutiny aimed at destabilising the state and its institutions.
“Faced with this situation, the Benin armed forces and their leadership, true to their oath, remained committed to the republic. Their response allowed them to retain control of the situation and foil the attempt.
“The government therefore urges the population to go about their activities as normal,” he said.
