The Senate has approved President Tinubu’s request for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin to support a regional peace effort following a botched coup attempt
The Senate on Tuesday approved President Bola Tinubu’s request for the deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin to support a regional peace and stabilisation mission aimed at protecting democratic governance in West Africa.
The approval came after Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a letter from the president seeking legislative consent to authorise the military deployment to the neighbouring country, in order to avert an unconstitutional takeover of power and prevent the destabilisation of democratic institutions.
In the correspondence, the president invoked Section 5, Subsection 5, Part 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), requesting authorisation to deploy troops in response to what he described as an attempted unconstitutional seizure of power in the neighbouring country.
Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s obligation to respond, citing the long-standing ties between both countries and the principles of collective security under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Following the presentation of the correspondence, the Senate resolved into a Committee of the Whole to deliberate on the request. The motion to enter the closed session was duly moved and seconded, and adopted through a voice vote called by the Senate President.
During the closed-door deliberations, senators considered the broader implications of the proposed deployment, including the risk of mass refugee inflow into Nigeria and the potential security challenges for border communities.
After reviewing these concerns, the Senate voted overwhelmingly in support of deploying the Nigerian Armed Forces to the Republic of Benin.
On return to plenary, Akpabio requested confirmation from senators that the report presented accurately captured the proceedings and resolutions of the Committee of the Whole, a request the chamber affirmed.
A final voice vote was subsequently taken to confirm the president’s action, with the majority of senators voting in the affirmative, thereby formalising the Senate’s consent.
Commending President Tinubu for adhering to constitutional procedure, Akpabio said the move underscored Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding democracy and regional stability.
“We believe the President has taken the right step. This action protects our borders, prevents criminality, and upholds democracy in West Africa. A duty to one is a duty to all,” the Senate Leader said.
He added that the Senate’s letter of consent would be forwarded to the President without delay.
