Tinubu’s Benin Republic Intervention Is Unconstitutional and Impeachable — Lawyer Marshal Abubakar

Human rights lawyer Marshal Abubakar has declared President Bola Tinubu’s deployment of Nigerian troops to Benin Republic after the December 7 coup an impeachable offence, arguing it violates Section 5(4)(b) of the 1999 Constitution. He said the President lacks the power to send armed forces on combat duty outside Nigeria without prior approval from the National Assembly, regardless of ECOWAS protocols. Abubakar stressed that emergency military action is only lawful when Nigeria itself faces imminent threat — not when intervening to defend another country. He also warned that ECOWAS treaties cannot supersede the Nigerian Constitution.
Beyond the legal infractions, Abubakar expressed concern over rising coups across West Africa, linking them to corruption, weak institutions, insecurity, and leadership failures. He urged African leaders to restore public trust, strengthen democratic systems, and address governance collapse to prevent further military takeovers.


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URGENT ECOWAS STATEMENT N°2 ON BÉNIN.

The Chair of ECOWAS 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

07 December 2025.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

President Tinubu commends Nigeria's Armed Forces for protecting democracy in Benin Republic

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the gallantry of Nigeria's military on Sunday for responding swiftly to the request by the Government of Benin Republic to save its 35-year-old democracy from coup plotters who struck at dawn today.

Acting on two separate requests from the Government of Benin, President Tinubu first ordered Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter the country and take over the airspace to help dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp where they had regrouped.

The Republic of Benin, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a Note Verbal, requested immediate Nigerian air support "in view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation and to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population."

In the second request, the authorities in Benin requested the deployment of Nigerian Air Force assets within Beninoise airspace for surveillance and rapid intervention operations under Benin-led coordination.

The Benin government also requested Nigerian ground forces, "strictly for missions approved by the Beninese Command authority in support of the protection of constitutional institutions and the containment of armed Groups."

Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said all the requests have been fulfilled, with Nigerian ground forces now in Benin.

"Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu," he said.

Constitutional order was upended in the Republic of Benin, Nigeria's neighbour, when some soldiers led by Colonel Pascal Tigri announced a coup on Sunday morning. The putschists seized the National TV and claimed they had toppled President Patrice Talon and suspended all democratic institutions.

It took some hours before the government's loyal forces, assisted by Nigeria, took control and flushed out the coup plotters from the National TV.

In his remarks after the restoration of the democratic and constitutional order, President Tinubu saluted the Nigerian armed forces for standing firm as a protector and defender of democracy.

“Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government. Our armed forces acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin."

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President

(Information and Strategy)

December 7, 2025

NIGERIA CONDEMNS ATTEMPTED UNCONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF BENIN

The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received with grave concern and unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted forcible seizure of power in our friendly neighbour and brotherly nation, the Republic of Benin in the early hours of Sunday 7th December, 2025.

This act of destabilization represents a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to peaceful political transitions. Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace.

We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President. Their dedication ensured that the unfortunate attempt to subvert democracy was decisively repelled.

Nigeria reiterates its strong commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as fundamental pillars for peace, development and regional stability. 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.

As a steadfast partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria calls on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and in reaffirming our shared commitment to the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.

The Federal Government of Nigeria reassures the Government of the Republic of Benin of its full support and continued cooperation as we work together, as brothers and partners, to deepen democracy and ensure lasting peace and prosperity for our peoples and the entire West African region.

Signed:

Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Sunday, 7th December, 2025

BREAKING: Benin’s president Patrice Talon seen on live TV for the first time since attempted coup

He says as the attempted coup d’état, has been thwarted with the help of Nigeria, and ECOWAS: “the situation is under control.”

ECOWAS Deploys Standby Force to Benin After Failed Coup Attempt

ECOWAS has ordered the immediate deployment of elements of its Standby Force to the Republic of Benin following Sunday’s failed coup attempt. In a statement titled “ECOWAS Statement N°2 on Bénin”, the bloc said the deployment was approved under Article 25(e) of its 1999 conflict-management protocol after consultations with regional leaders. Troops will be drawn from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana. The regional force is tasked with supporting Benin’s government and military to preserve constitutional order and prevent further instability. ECOWAS condemned the attempted coup as a subversion of the people’s will and warned that those responsible will be held accountable.

VP Shettima Departs Abuja For Abidjan

Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term in office as President of that country.

In a Statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha said Shettima is expected to join other leaders across Africa and beyond to witness activities lined up for the swearing-in ceremony scheduled to hold on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan.

Quatara was re-elected for a fourth term in office on October 25, 2025 as President of Côte d'Ivoire, a West African country that shares cordial diplomatic ties with Nigeria.

Both nations collaborate significantly within ECOWAS and the African Union on security, trade, and development, formalised by a Bi-National Commission and numerous agreements covering areas like anti-trafficking, agriculture, and digital economy, with strong informal trade and significant Nigerian diaspora in Côte d'Ivoire, fostering deep bilateral economic and social connections.

The Vice President is accompanied by HE Omar Aliyu Touray, President of ECOWAS Commission; Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and Hon. Usman Zannah, member representing Kaga/Gubio/Magumeri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

The Vice President is expected back in Abuja at the end of the inauguration ceremony.

Explosions Rock Tignon Barracks as Benin Coup Plotters Attempt Escape After Failed Takeover

Heavy explosions and gunfire erupted at Tignon Barracks near Cotonou as soldiers involved in Benin Republic’s failed coup attempt allegedly barricaded themselves inside the facility while trying to evade arrest. Led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, the mutineers briefly seized national television at dawn, announcing the suspension of the constitution before loyalist forces regained control. Reports indicate that several plotters shed their uniforms and fled in civilian clothes, while Tigri’s whereabouts remain unknown. Witnesses also observed unidentified aircraft arriving from Nigeria and Ivory Coast. ECOWAS and the African Union have condemned the attempted coup, as uncertainty and heightened security continue across Cotonou.

Nigeria Condemns Failed Coup in Benin, Affirms Strong Support for President Talon

The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin, describing the attack as a direct assault on democracy and regional stability. In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria praised Beninese security forces for swiftly repelling the plot and safeguarding President Patrice Talon. The government reaffirmed its commitments under ECOWAS and the African Union, urging all member states to reject unconstitutional changes of government. Nigeria also called for calm among political actors in Benin and pledged continued cooperation to defend democracy and maintain peace across West Africa.

BREAKING: ECOWAS has issued a statement condemning the attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin.

The regional body calls for full respect for Benin’s constitution and warns that those behind the plot will be held responsible.

African Leaders Including Femi Falana, Kwame Karikari Demand Release Of Guinea-Bissau Election Results, Condemn Military Rule

Twenty eminent African leaders, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) and Professor Kwame Karikari, have demanded the immediate release of Guinea-Bissau’s November 23 election results. The group condemned the military’s seizure of electoral materials and interference with the process, warning that West Africa cannot afford another democratic collapse. In a joint statement titled “Restoring Constitutional Order and the Rule of Law in Guinea-Bissau,” they urged ECOWAS, the African Union, and the UN to take decisive action to restore civilian rule and protect the will of the people.

Fake Coup In Guinea-Bissau: How Embaló Tried To Disrupt Democracy — Inside Story By Owei Lakemfa

The article exposes how Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló allegedly orchestrated a fake coup after losing the November 2025 election. Facing imminent loss of power and possible prosecution, Embaló reportedly staged a sham overthrow with loyal soldiers, misleading the media and foreign observers. International missions, including AU and WAEF led by Goodluck Jonathan, already had verified election results showing the opposition won. As his plot collapsed, Embaló fled Senegal, while ECOWAS and Nigeria now protect President-elect Fernando Diaz. The piece calls for the coup plotters to step down and for Embaló to face trial for treason.

Tinubu Welcomes 21 New Envoys, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Commitment to Global Peace and Partnerships

President Bola Tinubu has received Letters of Credence from 21 newly accredited foreign diplomats, assuring them of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in trade, security, development, and diplomacy. Speaking at the State House, Tinubu reaffirmed his open-door policy and encouraged deeper collaboration across key sectors including energy, agriculture, technology, education, and defence. He emphasised Nigeria’s readiness to work with the international community to address global challenges such as security threats, climate pressures, and economic instability.
Japan’s Ambassador, Suzuki Hideo, who spoke on behalf of the envoys, praised Tinubu's economic reforms and national security efforts, describing Nigeria as a resilient and promising nation within ECOWAS and Africa.

Nigeria Grants Asylum to Guinea-Bissau Presidential Candidate at Embassy

The Federal Government of Nigeria has granted temporary asylum to Guinea-Bissau opposition presidential candidate Fernando Dia Da Costa, offering him protection inside the Nigerian Embassy in Bissau amid credible reports of threats to his life.

The decision was formally communicated in a letter dated November 30, 2025, from Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to the President of the ECOWAS Commission.

Al-Kasim Abdulkadir, Media Aide to the Minister, confirmed the move, stating that granting refuge to Mr Da Costa “falls squarely within Nigeria’s sovereign responsibility and its longstanding commitment to regional peace, stability, and democratic governance.”

He emphasised that the intervention is aimed at de-escalating tensions in Guinea-Bissau, promoting social cohesion, and preventing further instability in the West African sub-region.

“This action is guided solely by the imperatives of peace, human security, and regional stability, in full alignment with ECOWAS principles and Nigeria’s historic role as a stabilising force in West Africa,”

Abdulkadir added the development comes ahead of Guinea-Bissau’s presidential run-off election scheduled for later this month, in which Mr Da Costa is a leading contender.

Nigeria President, Bola Tinubu don approve protection and security for Fernando Dias Da Costa, Guinea Bissau presidential candidate for di November, 2025 presidential election, for inside di Nigerian Embassy for Guinea Bissau.

Inside one letter wey dey signed by Nigeria Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar and addressed to di President of di Economic Community of West African States, Ecowas, Omar Touray, oga Tugar say President Tinubu approve di "provision and of protection and security for di premises of di Nigerian Embassy inside Guinea-Bissau."

Dis dey come afta military takeover power for di kontri thrpugh coup as citizens bin dey wait for di outcome of di presidential election.

AU Suspends Guinea-Bissau After Military Coup Topples President Embalo

The African Union (AU) has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its activities following the military coup that removed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo from power.

The AU’s action came just hours after the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies in response to the unconstitutional takeover.

Both regional bodies condemned the coup, stressing the need to restore constitutional order and stability in the West African nation.

Guinea-Bissau’s military has taken over the government, appointing General Horta N’Tam as leader for one year after overthrowing President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and suspending election results. Soldiers have shut down media, imposed a curfew, and briefly closed borders. The military claims it acted to stop a plot involving “drug lords” aimed at destabilising the country. Several top officials, including the president and opposition leader Domingos Pereira, have been arrested. ECOWAS, the UN, and Portugal have condemned the coup as the region faces a growing wave of military takeovers.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has safely left Guinea-Bissau after the military staged a coup and seized power. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed he departed on a special flight with his delegation, following calls from the House of Representatives to ensure his safety.

Jonathan had been in the country leading the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission during last Sunday’s elections before the military suspended the electoral process, closed borders, and took control. President Umaro Embalo was arrested, and the army later appointed General Horta N’Tam as interim leader for one year.

The Nigerian government strongly condemned the coup, describing it as a violation of ECOWAS democratic principles, and demanded the immediate restoration of constitutional order.

Election observers from ECOWAS, the AU, and the West African Elders Forum also denounced the military takeover, calling for the release of detained officials and warning that the coup undermines the region’s democratic progress.

ECOWAS Says Terrorists Threat Has Spread Across West Africa, Plans Deployment Of 5000 Troops

Ecowas Rejects Claims of Religious Genocide in West Africa.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has dismissed claims that any religious group is being systematically targeted in West Africa.

ECOWAS expressed serious concern over growing terrorist attacks across the region, including Nigeria, and warned against misinformation that could inflame divisions among communities. This follows US President Donald Trump’s assertion that Christians in Nigeria face systematic persecution and his subsequent declaration of the country as a “Country of Particular Concern,” along with threats of cutting aid and possible military intervention.

President Bola Tinubu rejected these claims, affirming that Nigeria remains a democracy committed to constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.

In a formal statement ahead of the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized the government’s resolve to defeat terrorism through diplomatic engagement and national unity, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at building a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient nation.

In its communiqué dated November 4, 2025, ECOWAS urged the United Nations and international partners to increase support for member states combating terrorist groups whose activities have caused widespread devastation and loss of life. The bloc stressed that extremist violence targets civilians of all faiths, ethnicity, gender, and age, and strongly rejected claims suggesting a genocide against any particular religious group, warning that such narratives could undermine social cohesion and worsen insecurity.

ECOWAS called on the international community to stand in solidarity with West African nations in their fight against terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing that coordinated regional and global efforts are crucial to protecting all communities and ensuring lasting peace.