The Nigerian Senate has given President Bola Tinubu the green light to deploy troops to the Republic of Benin as part of a regional mission aimed at safeguarding democracy and preventing any unconstitutional takeover of government.
The approval came on Tuesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the president’s formal request during plenary. The letter, submitted in line with constitutional requirements, sought the Senate’s consent for Nigeria’s participation in the peace-stabilisation effort.
Immediately after the letter was read, the Senate went into a closed-door session, where lawmakers examined the details of the proposed deployment.
During the deliberations, senators reportedly weighed the wider implications of instability in Benin including the possibility of refugees pouring into Nigeria if the situation deteriorates, and the potential strain on vulnerable border communities.
Lawmakers also discussed the strategic value of responding early to signs of political unrest in the region. Several senators were said to have argued that a prompt intervention could discourage anti-democratic elements and help maintain peace across West Africa.
After the internal review, the Senate committee voted in favour of the deployment. Returning to open session, Akpabio asked members to affirm the committee’s report, and the chamber agreed through a voice vote.
A final vote followed, and the majority of senators responded with an emphatic “aye,” formally approving the president’s request.
Speaking after the approval, Akpabio said the Senate was satisfied that Tinubu’s request was in line with Nigeria’s national security priorities and its commitment to regional stability.
“We believe the president has taken the right step. He acted not just in the best interest of Benin Republic, but in the interest of Nigeria,” he said.
“This action protects our borders, prevents criminality, and upholds democracy in West Africa. A duty to one is a duty to all.”
Akpabio noted that the Senate’s resolution would be immediately forwarded to the president to enable the commencement of the mission.
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