Gambiaj.com – (ABUJA, Nigeria) – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday expressed “consternation” over reports of an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin, condemning the action as an unconstitutional assault on democratic order.

In a statement issued from Abuja on 7 December 2025, the ECOWAS Commission said the attempted coup amounted to “a subversion of the will of the people of Benin” and called for strict adherence to the country’s constitution.

The regional body commended the Government of Benin and the Republican Army for swiftly bringing the situation under control, following an early-morning announcement by a group of soldiers claiming to have removed President Patrice Talon from power.

ECOWAS warned that the leaders of the attempted putsch would be held fully accountable “both individually and collectively” for any loss of life or damage to property resulting from their actions.

Reaffirming its commitment to defending democratic governance within the region, the Commission said it stood ready to support the Government and people of Benin by “all forms necessary,” including the possible deployment of the standby regional force to safeguard constitutional order and the country’s territorial integrity.

The statement comes amid heightened tensions in Cotonou, where authorities say several soldiers involved in the plot have already been arrested.