Former Nigerian Army spokesman, Brigadier General Usman Sani, has backed Nigeria’s decision to deploy troops to the Benin Republic following a failed military coup.
“Any problem in neighbouring countries affects Nigeria, even if some are smaller than a single state. Humanitarian crises, refugees, trade disruptions—all have consequences here,” Sani said.
The Senate approved President Bola Tinubu’s request for troop deployment on Tuesday, citing Section 5, Part II of the Constitution. Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the move as a necessary step to protect regional stability.
The decision has drawn criticism from Nigerians who argue that the country already faces significant security challenges at home.
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Sani defended the deployment, saying it was essential to stabilise democracy in Benin and counter influence from external powers in West Africa.
The coup attempt in Benin occurred on Sunday, when a group of officers, calling themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), announced President Patrice Talon’s removal on national television. The Benin military quickly regained control, with authorities stating that the country is now secure.
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