…cites threats to constitutional order
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has ordered the immediate deployment of its reserve force to Benin Republic as the region responds to an attempted military takeover of the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commission said the action follows consultations between members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, and is in line with its conflict prevention mandate.
“In accordance with the provisions of the relevant ECOWAS instruments, in particular Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol relating to the Mechanism for the Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security of Conflicts,” the Commission said.
“The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Reserve Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect.”
ECOWAS said the regional force will draw personnel from four member states, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Ghana, and will operate strictly to reinforce constitutional governance.
“The Regional Force will be composed of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire and the Republic of Ghana,” the statement said.
According to the Commission, the troops will be sent to help the Cotonou government stabilize the situation and defend national institutions after the failed mutiny.
“The Force will support the Government and the Benin Republican Army to preserve the constitutional order and territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin,” he added.
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