Nigeria Condemns Audacious Coup Attempt in Benin, Hails Heroic Security Forces for Saving President Talon
By Passman Akpos
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian government has slammed an early-morning coup attempt in the Republic of Benin as a brazen assault on democracy, praising Beninese authorities for swiftly thwarting the plot and safeguarding President Patrice Talon and the nation’s key institutions.
In a statement issued Sunday, December 7, 2025, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa expressed grave concern over the audacious attempt to forcibly seize power, describing it as an unacceptable threat to regional stability.
“Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin,” Ebienfa said, commending the courage and professionalism of Benin’s security forces. “Their swift and decisive action ensured that this desperate attempt to subvert democracy was fully repelled.”
The statement underscored that unconstitutional power grabs—whether through mutiny, armed takeover, or external infiltration—undermine West Africa’s hard-won democratic gains. Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to ECOWAS and African Union protocols, urging all member states to condemn the assault and safeguard political stability in the region.
“Nigeria reiterates its unwavering dedication to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law,” the statement read. “We call on all political actors in Benin to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and pursue their ambitions through peaceful, constitutional channels.”
The Federal Government also pledged continued cooperation with Benin as “brothers and partners” in strengthening democracy and ensuring lasting peace and prosperity across West Africa.
This dramatic incident, unfolding in the early hours of Sunday, has highlighted both the fragility and resilience of democratic institutions in the region, and the crucial role of security forces in defending constitutional order.
