ECOWAS deploys standby force to Benin after soldiers announce takeover

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the immediate deployment of its Standby Force to the Republic of Benin to safeguard constitutional order and protect the country’s territorial integrity.

The decision was taken after an emergency meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, in line with Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security.

In a statement issued on Sunday, December 7, 2025, the ECOWAS Commission said the deployment had been authorised by the Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government. Troops will be drawn from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, and will operate in close coordination with the Government of Benin and the Republican Army.

According to ECOWAS, the mission takes immediate effect and is aimed at restoring stability amid escalating political and security tensions in the country. The regional bloc did not disclose the size of the force or the duration of the deployment.

ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy and constitutional rule across the subregion and said it would provide updates as the situation evolves.

The announcement followed reports that a group of soldiers had appeared on national television in Benin, declaring the suspension of the constitution, the closure of land borders and airspace, and the removal of President Patrice Talon from office.

The soldiers named Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal as head of a newly formed military transition council, citing dissatisfaction with the President’s leadership as the reason for the takeover.