Deputy President of the Senate and First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Jibrin Barau, has commended Nigeria’s swift military intervention in Sunday’s attempted coup in the Republic of Benin as a decisive defence of democracy in West Africa.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Barau lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for quickly responding to Benin’s request for assistance and helping to restore constitutional order.
Barau emphasized that the action demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance.
He said: “Military rule has no place in our society. Regardless of the situation, democracy remains the best option for our subregion and continent.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s regional leadership
The Senator stressed that the speed and effectiveness of Nigeria’s response reaffirmed the country’s leadership role in safeguarding democratic stability across West Africa, particularly at a time when the region faces several unconstitutional political upheavals.
He highlighted the role of ECOWAS institutions, including the Parliament, in strengthening regional cooperation, promoting democratic governance, and enhancing security coordination to prevent future disruptions.
Barau called on West African nations to continue building resilient democratic institutions, emphasizing that collective vigilance and rapid intervention are essential to protecting regional stability.
Commitment to democracy and security
Barau reiterated that Nigeria’s intervention was not only a demonstration of solidarity with neighbouring countries but also a signal that democratic principles must be defended at all costs.
“Prompt action in the face of unconstitutional power grabs sends a strong message that democracy is not negotiable in West Africa,” he added.
He concluded by urging continued cooperation among regional governments and institutions to ensure that democratic governance remains the foundation of peace and security across the subregion.
