President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to approve the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin.
The request was conveyed in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary.
Tinubu explained that the deployment is part of a peacekeeping mission following the recent attempted coup in Benin Republic.
According to him, President Patrice Talon personally requested Nigeria’s support after the failed takeover.
He noted that the decision aligns with ECOWAS protocols and is backed by Section 30(5) of Nigeria’s Constitution, which permits such action when taken in consultation with the National Defence Council.
The Senate has referred the request to a Committee for immediate consideration.
Nigeria had earlier provided air support in response to the unconstitutional breach in Benin, marking the first phase of its intervention.
Earlier reports quoted a source in the 10th Senate clarifying that the President must consult lawmakers within 14 days when deploying troops for limited combat operations abroad contrary to claims that he must seek approval within 24 hours.
The presidency has described Nigeria’s swift action as a demonstration of Tinubu’s commitment to defending democracy and stability across West Africa.
Recalled that attempted coup unfolded on Sunday when soldiers under the “Military Committee for Refoundation” led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, briefly seized the state television station in Cotonou and announced the overthrow of President Talon’s government.
The rebellion was quickly suppressed after fighter jets and ground troops, deployed by Nigeria, intervened and restored order.
