The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that its involvement in the regional response to Sunday’s attempted coup in the Benin Republic was carried out strictly under the security directives of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
In a statement issued late Sunday, NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the deployment of Nigerian air assets into Beninese airspace was in full compliance with ECOWAS guidelines and formed part of the operational mandate of the ECOWAS Standby Force.
Ejodame noted that the operation was conducted in coordination with both ECOWAS and authorities in the host nation, stressing that Nigeria acted within internationally acceptable standards.
“The deployment reflects Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining stability in the West African sub-region and was executed in strict adherence to international standards and regional directives,” he said.
He added that the mission formed part of Nigeria’s responsibility to help safeguard constitutional order across West Africa.
Coup Attempt Quickly Contained
Tension rose in Cotonou early Sunday after gunfire was reportedly heard near the residence of President Patrice Talon, prompting the deployment of armoured vehicles around the presidential palace.
Shortly afterward, a group calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation claimed to have overthrown the government and dissolved state institutions.
However, authorities swiftly dismissed the claims. The Presidency in Lomé stated that President Talon was safe, and loyal forces were “steadily restoring order.”
Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, later appeared on national television to reassure citizens, confirming that the coup attempt had been foiled.