Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday ordered the immediate deployment of elements of its Regional Standby Force to the Republic of Benin following a reported attempt by renegade soldiers to overthrow President Patrice Talon.
The decision follows an emergency consultation of ECOWAS’ Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, according to a statement issued Sunday night by the Commission.
“In line with Article 25(e) of the 1999 ECOWAS Protocol, the Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect,” the bloc announces.
The force draws troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Sierra Leone, and is mandated to support the Beninese government and the Republican Army to preserve constitutional order and territorial integrity.
Tensions rise in Cotonou after gunfire erupts, and a faction of soldiers appears on state television claiming to have seized power under the name “Military Committee for Refoundation.” The group alleges it has removed President Talon from office.
However, Talon’s office dismisses the claims, insisting the president remains safe and in control. “This is a small group that only controls the television. The regular army is regaining full control,” his office tells AFP.
ECOWAS strongly condemns the attempted takeover, describing it as “a subversion of the will of the people of Benin,” and warns the plotters they will be held accountable for any loss of life or property.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Koko Maxwella 