President Bola Tinubu seeks Senate consent for Nigerian troop deployment to Benin Republic to support government amid attempted coup
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has written to the Nigerian Senate seeking consent for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin, following a request from the neighbouring country for immediate military assistance.
Also read: NGF Hails Tinubu’s Swift Action in Benin Coup
The letter was read on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Tuesday.
In the letter, Tinubu cited Section 5, Subsection 5, Part 2 of the 1999 Constitution and stated that the request was made “in further consultation with the National Defence Council.”
He explained that the government of Benin faced an attempted unconstitutional seizure of power and destabilisation of democratic institutions, necessitating urgent external intervention.
“Considering the close ties of brotherhood and friendship which exists between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, as well as the principles of collective security upheld within ECOWAS, it is our duty to provide the support as requested by the government,” the president wrote.
The letter was committed to the committee of the whole by Akpabio “for immediate action.”
On 7 December, a group of military officers in Benin announced a coup, which was swiftly quashed hours later, with President Patrice Talon confirmed safe.
Nigerian authorities had immediately agreed to Benin’s request for air and ground troop support to stabilise the situation and deter the mutineers.
Also read: Tinubu’s Swift Benin Coup Response Sparks ADC Criticism
Analysts say the prompt response underscores the close diplomatic and security ties between the two countries and Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability within ECOWAS.
