A senior Senate source has clarified that President Bola Tinubu acted within constitutional powers when Nigeria intervened to help foil the attempted coup in Benin Republic. According to the source, Section 5(5) of the 1999 Constitution allows the President to deploy military forces abroad during imminent national security threats, provided he seeks Senate approval within 14 days of combat engagement.
The clarification followed public claims that Tinubu was required to obtain Senate approval within 24 hours.
The coup attempt, led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, saw mutineers briefly seize Benin’s state television station before loyalist forces—supported by Nigerian fighter jets and troops—restored order. Two top Beninese officers earlier held hostage were released on Monday.
The Presidency said Nigeria’s swift intervention demonstrated Tinubu’s leadership in safeguarding democracy and stability across West Africa. Presidential aide Dada Olusegun noted that Nigeria’s quick condemnation and support helped reinforce ECOWAS’ zero-tolerance stance against coups.
However, the African Democratic Congress, ADC, criticised the government, arguing that its rapid action abroad contrasts sharply with its slow response to domestic insecurity. The party questioned why the government could act “overnight” in Benin but has struggled to curb banditry and violence within Nigeria. ADC also raised concerns about inconsistencies in Nigeria’s foreign interventions, referencing earlier delays during instability in Guinea-Bissau.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin praised Tinubu for approving the intervention, saying democracy must be protected across the region. He noted that military rule “has no place in modern society” and reaffirmed ECOWAS Parliament’s commitment to promoting peace, security and democratic governance.
