ECOWAS deploys standby force to Benin Republic to preserve constitutional order

 

By: Zagazola Makama 

 

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the immediate deployment of a regional standby force to the Republic of Benin to support the government and the Beninese military in preserving constitutional order, following the recent military coup in the country.

 

In a statement released on Saturday, the ECOWAS Commission said the decision was taken pursuant to relevant provisions of ECOWAS instruments, particularly Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security.

 

The deployment follows consultations among member states within the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government. The Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government ordered the mobilization of the standby force to Benin Republic with immediate effect.

 

The regional force is expected to comprise troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. ECOWAS stated that the forces will work in close coordination with the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to restore stability and safeguard the constitutional framework in the country.

 

The move illustrates ECOWAS’ commitment to upholding democracy and preventing unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa.

 

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