By Erewunmi Peace

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin, calling it “unconstitutional” and urging respect for the country’s democratic institutions.

The attempted coup occurred on 7 December 2025, when a group of soldiers appeared on state television announcing that they had seized power, dissolved state institutions, and suspended the constitution. The Beninese government quickly responded, stating that loyal forces had regained control and that the plotters were being arrested.

In a statement, ECOWAS emphasized its commitment to protecting constitutional order and the rule of law in member states. The regional body also highlighted the potential deployment of its standby force to help ensure the security and territorial integrity of Benin if needed.

Eyewitness reports indicated that the situation in the capital, Porto-Novo, stabilized quickly, with no large-scale violence reported. The government reassured citizens that public safety and essential services remained uninterrupted.

This incident comes amid heightened security concerns in West Africa, where ECOWAS has increasingly played a role in preventing unconstitutional power seizures and promoting democratic governance.