ECOWAS condemns attempted coup in Benin, vows support for constitutional order

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep concern over reports of an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin.

In an official statement released on Sunday, the ECOWAS Commission “strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin.”

The regional body called for “the full respect of the Constitution of Benin” and praised “the efforts of the Government and the Republican Army in bringing the situation under control.”

ECOWAS held the coup plotters “both individually and collectively responsible for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action.”

Furthermore, ECOWAS pledged robust support for Benin, stating it “will support the Government and the people in all forms necessary, including the deployment of the regional standby force, to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”