West African leaders have intensified regional security efforts following renewed coup threats, as Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rallied ECOWAS heads of state to defend democracy while authorities in Benin Republic arrested the son of a former president in the aftermath of a foiled coup attempt.
The developments underscore growing instability across the region and have heightened concerns about democratic backsliding, military takeovers, and political repression.
At the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Abuja, President Tinubu urged West African leaders to act collectively against terrorism, unconstitutional changes of government, and transnational crime .
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stressed that no single country could address the region’s security challenges alone, calling for stronger intelligence-sharing, border cooperation, and coordinated responses to emerging threats.
ECOWAS leaders at the summit described West Africa as being in a “state of emergency” following a series of coups and attempted coups across the sub-region, pledging renewed commitment to democratic governance and regional stability .
Arrest of Former President’s Son in Benin
Meanwhile, tension rose in Benin Republic after security forces arrested Chabi Yayi, the son of former president and opposition figure Thomas Boni Yayi, in Cotonou .
Authorities have not officially disclosed the charges against him, but the arrest comes days after a failed coup attempt that saw mutinous soldiers briefly seize state television before loyal forces regained control.
Opposition figures and human rights advocates have raised concerns that the arrest may be politically motivated, though Beninese officials insist investigations are ongoing and aimed at safeguarding national security.
Following the failed takeover, Benin’s government has detained several individuals and launched investigations into alleged conspirators. Officials say the measures are necessary to prevent further destabilization, while critics warn that the crackdown could deepen political divisions in the country .
The incident has drawn regional attention, particularly within ECOWAS, as leaders attempt to prevent Benin from joining the growing list of West African states affected by military intervention in politics.
Analysts say the parallel developments highlight the fragile state of democracy in West Africa and the mounting pressure on ECOWAS to assert its authority. Nigeria, as the bloc’s most populous nation and a key political force, is expected to play a leading role in shaping the bloc’s response.
As Tinubu continues to push for unity and democratic safeguards, the situation in Benin remains a critical test of ECOWAS’ resolve to prevent further erosion of civilian rule in the region.