Benin Coup Thwarted: Senator Barau Applauds President Tinubu, Reaffirms Democracy as the Superior Choice

The Deputy President of the Senate and First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promptly approving the request of the Benin Republic Government for Nigerian military support to halt the attempted coup in the country.

On Sunday, soldiers operating under the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) announced the removal of President Patrice Talon in a broadcast aired on the state-owned television station.

The rapid response of the Nigerian Armed Forces was instrumental in preventing the coup and restoring stability and order in the neighbouring nation.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau praised President Tinubu for his timely intervention in response to Benin’s appeal.

Emphasizing that democracy remains the most effective form of governance, Senator Barau stated that military rule has no relevance in the modern global landscape.

“I commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for swiftly responding to the request of the Government of the Benin Republic for Nigerian military intervention to halt the coup attempt in their country.

“Military rule has no place in our society. No matter the circumstances, democracy remains the best option for our subregion and the entire continent. We must work collectively to promote, defend, and strengthen the system based on our unique realities,” he said.

He further noted that through the ECOWAS Parliament, efforts will continue to enhance legislative collaboration, deepen democratic governance, advance regional integration, and support shared prosperity throughout West Africa.

“At the ECOWAS Parliament—the people’s parliament—our dedication to building a more united, stable, and prosperous West Africa is unwavering. We remain committed to advancing parliamentary diplomacy, fostering cohesion among member states, and promoting peace and security for the development of our region,” he added.