By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Press Secretary to the President, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., has lauded the decisive and coordinated leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, for his central role in thwarting an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin. He emphasized that the incident serves as yet another reminder of the fragile state of democratic governance in parts of West Africa and the continued need for firm, principled regional leadership.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi noted that at a time when democratic institutions across the region face increasing threats from unconstitutional power grabs, ECOWAS demonstrated remarkable resolve under President Bio’s stewardship. He stressed that the attempted coup in Benin exposed the susceptibility of even relatively stable democracies to sudden military disruptions. However, swift intervention at the highest levels of ECOWAS prevented what could have been a major political crisis.

According to the Press Secretary, President Bio acted with clarity, urgency and conviction, reinforcing ECOWAS’ long-standing commitment to safeguarding democracy, peace and constitutional order. His prompt communication with fellow Heads of State and the coordination of unified regional action sent a powerful signal that coups and other unconstitutional changes of Government would not be tolerated under his chairmanship. This, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi said, helped create the pressure and diplomatic environment necessary to forestall the attempted takeover and preserve President Patrice Talon’s legitimate administration in Benin.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi further commended the collective stance taken by ECOWAS leaders during the crisis. He described the bloc’s solidarity as both commendable and essential in demonstrating regional intolerance for military adventurism. “The unity displayed by ECOWAS Heads of State reinforced the legitimacy of Benin’s democratic institutions and contributed significantly to the swift de-escalation of tensions,” he stated.

According to him, this episode reaffirms ECOWAS’ commitment to the fundamental principles enshrined in its protocols, including the protection of elected Governments and the promotion of regional stability.

In reflecting on President Bio’s broader leadership within ECOWAS, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi recalled his similarly decisive response to the recent situation in Guinea-Bissau. Shortly after an attempted coup there, President Bio undertook a bold visit to Bissau, delivering a firm message to the military authorities and calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order. That, he said, was yet another example of Bio’s resolve to ensure that West Africa stays on a democratic trajectory.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi concluded that the successful prevention of the attempted military coup in Benin highlights the effectiveness of President Bio’s leadership and the unwavering commitment of ECOWAS member states to preserve democratic governance. As West Africa continues to grapple with political instability, violent extremism and governance challenges, he emphasized that such unity, vigilance and principled leadership are essential for safeguarding peace and stability across the region.

He added that the crisis in Benin, swiftly contained through regional collaboration, should serve as an encouraging reminder that democracy can and will prevail when leaders act with courage, conviction and solidarity. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bios-leadership-credited-for-ecowas-swift-action-in-foiling-attempted-military-takeover-in-benin/