West African Troops Deployed to Benin After Failed Coup Attempt
About 200 West African soldiers, mainly from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, have been deployed to Benin to support the government following a failed coup attempt on Sunday. Nigeria sent fighter jets to retake control of a military base and state TV headquarters where the mutineers had announced the coup.
Troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast were deployed by the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) to secure key installations and prevent any resurgence of violence. An Ivory Coast security source confirmed about 50 of their soldiers are part of the overall contingent. The presence of regional forces in Benin totals around 200 personnel.
Benin’s foreign minister stated that some regional troops remain in the country conducting sweep and clean-up operations, though it is unclear if all have stayed. Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway for those involved in the coup, with the leader believed to be taking refuge in neighboring Togo.
Discussions about the duration of the regional forces' stay in Benin are ongoing, involving Benin’s defense and security officials. It is also unclear whether French special forces, reportedly involved during the crisis, remain stationed in the country.
Ecowas has indicated its commitment to defending democracy in the region. President Patrice Talon of Benin is due to step down next year, with elections scheduled for April.
