The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has ordered the immediate deployment of its standby force to the Republic of Benin following the foiling of an attempted military coup in the country. In a statement issued on Sunday, the regional bloc said troops—including personnel from Nigeria—were being mobilised to support the Beninese government and protect constitutional order. ECOWAS Chairman and Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force had been carrying out operations at the request of the Beninese authorities to secure the country’s airspace and conduct rapid-response missions. Tinubu added that Benin had asked for additional ground support to counter armed elements and stabilise the situation. Nigerian ground troops have since been deployed to help protect key installations and government institutions. According to ECOWAS, Nigerian fighter jets were instrumental in flushing out coup plotters from the national broadcaster and a military facility they had earlier seized. Reports from Cotonou indicated that explosions were heard in parts of the city amid suspected airstrikes on rebel positions. President Patrice Talon later addressed the nation, assuring citizens that the attempted takeover had been completely neutralised. He commended the loyalty and professionalism of the armed forces, vowing that those responsible would face serious consequences. The unrest began when a group of officers took over the state television station and announced that the government had been overthrown. They claimed to have shut the country’s borders and named Lt.-Col. Pascal Tigri as head of a so-called “military reconstruction commission.” Talon dismissed the declaration, stressing that the legitimate government and state institutions remain fully in control.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has called on Yoruba people to remain vigilant amid escalating insecurity across Nigeria, warning that recent attacks in northern and central states pose a growing risk to the South-West.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, the monarch made the remarks in Ode-Omu, Osun State, during the weekend celebration of Ode-Omu Day.

Nigeria has witnessed a spike in terrorist and bandit attacks in recent weeks, with fresh incidents in Kwara and Kogi—two states bordering the South-West—heightening regional concerns and prompting governors in the zone to hold an emergency security meeting.

Speaking at the event, Oba Ladoja urged residents to be alert in the face of the worsening situation.

“Let me use this occasion to urge Yoruba people to be vigilant amid the security challenges facing Nigeria,” he said.

The monarch also praised the communal spirit of the people of Ode-Omu under the leadership of the Alaye of Ode-Omu, Oba Bolarinwa Oladipupo, commending their commitment to development initiatives.

“I want to pledge the readiness of Ibadan to always support Ode-Omu’s development. Next year, an illustrious son and Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Chief Tunde Afolabi, will be drafted to chair Ode-Omu Day,” he added.

Ode-Omu Day is an annual celebration during which the community reviews its achievements and outlines future development plans.

Earlier, former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, highlighted the historical ties between Ibadan and Ode-Omu, noting that Ibadan warriors resettled the town in its present location in 1909. He also commended the strong presence of traditional rulers at the event.

Those in attendance included members of the Olubadan-in-Council: the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola; the Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South in the Senate.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, was represented by the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Oladepo, while the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Francis Adedoyin, also attended with his chiefs.