By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the immediate deployment of its Standby Force to the Republic of Benin following an aborted coup attempt on Saturday, 7 December 2025. The regional bloc said the decision was taken after emergency consultations by the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government.
According to the ECOWAS Commission, the deployment is in line with Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security. The bloc emphasized that the move aims to safeguard Benin’s constitutional order and protect its territorial integrity after a group of mutinous soldiers attempted to seize power.
The coup attempt began early Sunday when soldiers identifying themselves as members of the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) stormed Benin’s state television headquarters. They announced the dissolution of government institutions, declared President Patrice Talon removed from office, suspended the constitution, and ordered the closure of all land borders and airspace.
The group reportedly tried to access President Talon’s residence but were pushed back by loyalist forces. For several hours, the president’s whereabouts remained unclear, causing nationwide anxiety. During the standoff, the French Embassy reported gunfire near Camp Guezo close to the presidential residence and advised its citizens to remain indoors.
Beninese authorities later confirmed that loyalist forces had regained control and that the attempted military takeover had been thwarted. Government sources reported that normalcy was gradually returning, although security operations were ongoing to locate remaining mutineers and secure strategic installations.
ECOWAS strongly condemned the attempted coup, describing it as an unconstitutional act that threatened the stability of Benin and the wider West African region. The bloc reaffirmed its unwavering support for President Talon and the people of Benin, stressing its commitment to ensuring the preservation of democratic governance.
Troops from multiple ECOWAS member states are now en route to Benin to support stabilization efforts. The regional force will work alongside Beninese security agencies to maintain order, prevent further unrest, and reinforce protections for critical state institutions.
ECOWAS reiterated that it will continue to assist Benin with all necessary measures “to uphold democracy, peace, and security” in the wake of the failed coup attempt.
