Presidency Lauds Tinubu’s “Decisive” Stance in Thwarting Benin Republic Coup

Presidency Lauds Tinubu’s “Decisive” Stance in Thwarting Benin Republic Coup

The Presidency has stated that Nigeria’s swift response to the recent attempted coup in the Republic of Benin reflects President Bola Tinubu’s decisive leadership in upholding peace and constitutional governance across West Africa.

On Sunday, soldiers under the banner of the “Military Committee for Refoundation,” led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, briefly seized the state television station in Cotonou and announced the overthrow of President Patrice Talon. The Benin government later confirmed that loyalist forces quickly dislodged the plotters.

In a statement issued on X on Monday, the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, emphasized that President Tinubu’s actions reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to defending democracy in the sub-region.

“The recent attempted coup in the Republic of Benin once again underscored the critical role President Bola Ahmed Tinubu plays in safeguarding democracy and stability across West Africa,” Olusegun said. “As chaos briefly unfolded in Cotonou on December 7, 2025, Nigeria, under President Tinubu’s direction, moved swiftly and decisively, demonstrating firm commitment to constitutional order.”

He added that while Benin’s forces contained the mutiny, Nigeria’s prompt condemnation helped shape a unified regional stance against unconstitutional seizures of power.

“By standing firmly with Benin’s elected authorities, President Tinubu ensured that Nigeria continued to lead by example, advocating dialogue, stability, and constitutionalism,” the statement continued.

Olusegun noted that Tinubu’s approach aligns with the strong position of ECOWAS, which he chairs, and reflects his consistent message that the era of coups in West Africa must end.

He described the failed coup as a reminder of the fragility of democracy in the region, but also as proof of the need for principled leadership.

“President Tinubu’s rapid, coherent, and resolute response reinforced Nigeria’s traditional role as the anchor of West African stability,” Olusegun stated.

The aide concluded by saying that as Benin prepares for its 2026 political transition, Tinubu’s unwavering defense of democracy remains a stabilizing force, guiding the region toward a future where constitutional order is non-negotiable.