BREAKING: Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request to Deploy Nigerian Troops to Benin

The Nigerian Senate has granted President Bola Tinubu approval to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of a regional peacekeeping mission aimed at stabilising the neighbouring country after a recent failed coup attempt.

The Senate said the decision was necessary to safeguard democracy in Benin and prevent a potential influx of refugees through the Nigeria–Benin border should instability escalate.

President Tinubu’s request, contained in a letter dated 8 December 2025, was read during Tuesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The President hinged the deployment request on Section 5(5) of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers him to seek legislative approval for external military engagement.

When Akpabio subjected the motion to a voice vote, senators unanimously endorsed the request, giving the President full backing to proceed with the mission.

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Akpabio explained that the deployment was made at the formal request of the Benin Republic government, which sought Nigeria’s assistance in restoring stability following a brief takeover attempt by renegade soldiers.

The crisis erupted on Sunday when a group of soldiers announced that they had overthrown President Patrice Talon’s democratically elected government. The coup was swiftly neutralised by Beninese authorities, with the soldiers arrested within hours of their broadcast.

In response to the attempted takeover, President Tinubu had earlier deployed Nigerian military fighter jets in support of Benin’s loyalist forces, helping to secure critical national assets and reinforce regional defence obligations.

The Senate’s approval now provides constitutional backing for the continuation of Nigeria’s military involvement in Benin, marking a significant step in West Africa’s ongoing efforts to counter unconstitutional changes of government.

BREAKING: Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request to Deploy Nigerian Troops to Benin

BREAKING: Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval to Deploy Nigerian Troops After Benin Coup Attempt

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally requested the approval of the Nigerian Senate to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin following the recent failed coup attempt in the neighbouring country.

The request, conveyed in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary, was made pursuant to Section 5(5) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates Senate consent for external combat deployment. Tinubu said the move followed an official plea from the Beninese government after its security apparatus came under threat.

According to the President, the deployment aligns with Nigeria’s longstanding “ties of friendship and brotherhood” with Benin and reflects the nation’s commitment to regional peacekeeping, stability, and democratic governance in West Africa.

Coup Attempt in Benin and Nigeria’s Response

The crisis erupted when soldiers under the banner of the Military Committee for Refoundation, led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, seized the state television station in Cotonou and announced the overthrow of President Patrice Talon. They declared the dissolution of state institutions and closure of borders.

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In response to a direct request from Benin, Nigeria swiftly deployed fighter jets and ground forces to assist loyalist troops in retaking key installations. The intervention, supported by the ECOWAS Standby Force, helped dislodge the mutineers and restore constitutional order.

Benin’s government later confirmed that the coup attempt had been foiled, with several of the plotters fleeing. The incident occurred as the country prepares for its April 2026 presidential election, sparking renewed concerns about political stability across the sub-region.

Senate Debate and Regional Implications

Tinubu’s request has stirred debate among legal analysts and political commentators. While supporters argue that the President acted within constitutional limits due to the urgency of the situation, critics question whether deploying troops abroad without prior approval is permissible under Nigerian law.

The unfolding situation carries significant implications for ECOWAS security, Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa, and future responses to rising instability across the region. With multiple coups in neighbouring nations in recent years, the swift action in Benin is seen as a renewed effort to deter unconstitutional power grabs.

The Senate is expected to formally deliberate on the President’s request within the constitutionally required timeframe.

BREAKING: Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval to Deploy Nigerian Troops After Benin Coup Attempt

India Deports 32 Nigerians Linked to Transnational Drug Network

India has deported 32 Nigerian nationals connected to a transnational drug and hawala syndicate, barely two weeks after authorities arrested about 50 suspects in a multi-state narcotics operation. The crackdown, described as one of India’s largest coordinated anti-drug efforts targeting foreign-run networks, focused on criminal activities spanning multiple cities.

Investigators linked the syndicate to a Nigeria-based kingpin known as “Nick”, who is reportedly wanted in several drug-trafficking cases. Senior officials from the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) stated that all Nigerians detained in Delhi were employed by the fugitive kingpin.

“Less than 10 days after the EAGLE team, in coordination with the Delhi Police, nabbed 50 Nigerians linked to drug peddling, 32 of them have been deported,” a report by the Times of India revealed.

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The network, according to officials, had around 100 associates in Delhi alone, forming a complex supply chain serving clients across India. A forensic review of digital devices recovered from the suspects showed over 3,000 clientele, with customer lists traced through payment trails, encrypted chats, and delivery contacts.

Investigators also uncovered companies allegedly used to launder drug money, including legitimate-looking businesses in publishing, shoes, and clothing sectors. In one instance, a publisher reportedly transferred Rs 20 lakh to Nigeria in connection with the syndicate.

While 32 suspects have been deported, seven others remain in India facing prosecution following drug seizures during the operation. Officials noted that additional suspects could also face deportation pending clearance and documentation.

India Deports 32 Nigerians Linked to Transnational Drug Network