"Military Decision" Quickly Made After Foiling Coup Attempt in Benin

SadaNews - The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the immediate deployment of elements from its standby force in Benin after authorities there foiled a coup attempt.

ECOWAS stated in a statement that the troops, including soldiers from neighboring Nigeria, will support the government and protect the constitutional order in the country.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said in a statement that the Nigerian Air Force was operating at the request of Benin to secure airspace and carry out rapid missions in coordination with the neighboring state.

He clarified that the forces acted under ECOWAS mandate and thus defended the constitutional order in Benin.

Tinubu added that Benin also requested ground troops to protect the government and confront armed groups, noting that Nigerian ground forces are already present in the country.

The statement indicated that Nigerian fighter jets helped drive the coup conspirators from the government television building and a military base.

Media reports suggested explosions were heard following an alleged airstrike in the coastal city of Cotonou, where the government is located.

Media reports stated that Benin's President Patrice Talon said on Sunday evening that the situation is now fully under control.

He thanked the armed forces and military leadership for their loyalty to the country and the constitution, stating on government television that the coup attempt would not go unpunished.

Gunfire was earlier heard near the presidential palace, and a group of military officers seized the national broadcasting agency and announced the dismissal of Talon.

The soldiers indicated that the country's borders have been closed and Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri was appointed as head of the "Military Reconstruction Committee."