The ECOWAS Parliament has expressed strong appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s swift intervention aimed at safeguarding democratic governance in the Republic of Benin following a recent attempted coup. Lawmakers within the regional body affirmed their support for Nigeria’s decisive response, describing it as a crucial step toward maintaining stability across West Africa.
Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, delivered the parliament’s official resolution. He emphasized that Nigeria’s actions were taken in the collective interest of the sub-region, noting that peace and democratic order remain core priorities for ECOWAS.
The commendation was reinforced by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th Session of the Mediation and Security Council at ministerial level, held in Abuja on December 9, 2025. Touray underscored that the recent events in Benin demonstrate a growing vulnerability within the region’s democratic systems.
According to Touray, the failed coup—and similar political tensions across West Africa—serve as a reminder that democracy in the sub-region requires renewed commitment and significant investment in community security.
He stressed that elections continue to be a major flashpoint for instability, noting that despite ECOWAS’ extensive efforts to establish shared constitutional principles and support electoral processes, violations of these norms persist.
“We have continued to witness political practices that undermine our established democratic principles,” Touray warned. “These events highlight the urgent need for serious reflection on the future of our democracy.”
Touray also pointed to the rising security threats along the region’s borders, particularly those shared with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). He emphasized the necessity of negotiating new security frameworks with AES countries to effectively counter the growing influence of terrorist groups operating near ECOWAS territories.
“We must strengthen our cooperation with neighbouring states as we confront the devastating activities of terrorist groups along our borders,” he added.
The ECOWAS Parliament’s statement signals a continued commitment to upholding democratic norms and regional security cooperation. It also highlights the increasing pressure on West African leaders to address political instability, terrorism, and the erosion of constitutional order across the sub-region.
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