BREAKING: Nigerian Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request To Deploy Troops To Benin Republic
The Senate, on Tuesday, approved a request from Presidenta Bola Tinubu to deploy Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of a regional peace-stabilisation mission aimed at safeguarding democratic governance in West Africa.
The approval followed the receipt of a formal presidential correspondence in which the President sought the Senate’s consent to authorise military deployment to the neighbouring country to forestall an unconstitutional seizure of power and prevent the destabilisation of democratic institutions.
Following the reading of the letter, the Senate resolved into a Committee of the Whole to deliberate on the President’s request.
The motion to enter committee session was moved and seconded after the Senate President called for a voice vote, with the majority of senators responding in the affirmative.
During the closed-door session, Senators examined the implications of the proposed deployment, including the potential for mass refugee movement into Nigeria and the security impact on border communities.
After deliberations, the Senate voted overwhelmingly in favour of granting approval for the deployment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to the Republic of Benin.
Upon reverting to plenary to report outcome, the Senate President asked members to confirm that the report accurately reflected the discussions at the executive session. The chamber responded affirmatively.
A final voice vote was taken on the confirmation of the President’s action, with the majority again voting “aye,” thereby formalising the Senate’s consent.
In his remarks, the Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio commended the President for seeking constitutional approval and for taking steps to prevent a potential democratic breakdown in the region.
He stressed that the stabilisation mission was critical not only for Benin but also for Nigeria’s national security.
“We believe the President has taken the right step,” the Senate Leader said. “This action protects our borders, prevents criminality, and upholds democracy in West Africa. A duty to one is a duty to all.”
He added that the Senate’s letter of consent would be formally transmitted to the President immediately.
