ECOWAS deploys standby force to Benin amid military takeover attempt

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the deployment of its Standby Force to the Republic of Benin following a recent military takeover attempt that threatened constitutional order. The move was confirmed after an emergency meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government.

According to the official statement, troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana will form part of the standby contingent, operating in coordination with the Government and Republican Army of Benin. The force is expected to help restore stability and protect the country’s territorial integrity as the situation unfolds.

The decision follows the dramatic development on Sunday 7 December 2025, when a faction of soldiers seized state television in Benin, announced the dissolution of government institutions and closure of borders, claiming to oust the government. The takeover bid was met with swift condemnation both locally and internationally. Loyalist forces regained control shortly afterwards and detained several soldiers.

ECOWAS described the attempted takeover as a direct attack on democracy and constitutional governance. The bloc reiterated its commitment to defending democratic institutions and called on all member states to uphold constitutional order.

Regional and international observers have welcomed the decision, noting that the deployment sends a strong message against military interference in political processes. Many believe that the presence of a multinational force may help deter further attempts and reassure citizens of Benin and the wider West African region.

However, some analysts caution that stability will depend not only on military intervention but also on political dialogue, respect for civil rights, and transparent investigation into the causes of the unrest. They emphasise that sustainable peace requires addressing underlying economic and governance grievances that often fuel such military actions.

As ECOWAS forces mobilise, Ghana, as a contributing country might play a key role in preserving regional stability. For now, the deployment is seen as both a show of solidarity within the West African bloc and a test of ECOWAS’s capacity to protect democracy in the face of rising threats across the region.