The Federal Government has condemned Sunday’s attempted coup in the Republic of Benin, describing it as a direct assault on democracy and the collective will of the Beninese people.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed deep concern over the development and restated its solidarity with its neighbour.
“Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace,” the statement read.
The ministry also commended the Beninese security forces for foiling the attempt.
“We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President,” it added.
Nigeria warned that any unconstitutional change of government threatens regional stability and undermines democratic progress.
As a member of ECOWAS and the African Union, Nigeria urged other countries and partners to jointly condemn the incident.
“We call on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and reaffirming our shared commitment to the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance,” the statement said.
The Federal Government also appealed for calm in Benin, advising all parties to resolve grievances through lawful means.
“We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional and democratic means,” it added.
Nigeria further assured Benin of its continued cooperation in promoting peace and stability in West Africa.
The attempted takeover had earlier been announced on state television by a group calling itself the “Military Committee for Refoundation”, which claimed to have removed President Patrice Talon from office.
However, Talon’s office insisted he was safe and that loyal forces were restoring order.
