By mercy Peter
Nigeria has strongly condemned an attempted unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Benin, describing the incident as a “direct assault on democracy and constitutional order” in the neighbouring West African nation.
In an official statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. on Sunday the Government said it received “with grave concern” reports of an attempted forcible seizure of power in Cotonou in the early hours of December 7, 2025.
According to the statement, Nigerian authorities lauded the “swift action” taken by the Government of Benin and its security agencies to repel the attempt and safeguard the country’s legitimate institutions.
The Foreign Ministry praised the “courage and professionalism” of the Beninese security forces, noting that their rapid response was crucial in ensuring the safety of the President and preserving stability.
Nigeria also emphasized that any unconstitutional change of government poses a serious threat to regional peace and undermines the democratic progress recorded in West Africa in recent decades.
“Unconstitutional changes of government are an unacceptable and retrogressive step that threatens the hard-earned democratic gains and socio-economic progress of our sub-region,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, Nigeria urged all parties in Benin to maintain calm, respect the rule of law, and pursue political engagement through “peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.”
As a key member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), Nigeria also called on regional and international partners to join in condemning the attempted coup and upholding the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, as well as the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
The statement concluded with an assurance of Nigeria’s continued support for the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, describing the two nations as “brothers and partners” committed to deepening democracy and fostering long-term peace and prosperity across West Africa.
