What Are 200 West African Soldiers Doing in Benin After the Failed Coup?

Following a thwarted coup attempt in Benin, approximately 200 West African soldiers, predominantly from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, have been deployed to support the Beninese government. This marks a significant response from the regional bloc, ECOWAS, aimed at reinforcing security and stability in the country.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In the aftermath of a failed coup attempt on 1 October 2023, the Beninese government has received military assistance from regional allies. The coup was reportedly quashed when Nigerian fighter jets intervened, forcing the mutineers to retreat from a military base and state television headquarters. As of Thursday, Benin's Foreign Affairs Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari confirmed that around 200 foreign soldiers remain in the country to aid in ongoing security operations. This deployment is part of a broader effort by ECOWAS to uphold democratic governance in West Africa, particularly in light of increasing military coups across the region.

Key takeaways

• Approximately 200 soldiers from Nigeria and Ivory Coast are in Benin to support government forces.
• The coup attempt was foiled through coordinated military action from Nigeria, including air support.
• The leader of the failed coup reportedly fled to neighbouring Togo.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline of events leading to the current situation in Benin:

• 1 October 2023: A coup attempt occurs in Benin, with rebel soldiers declaring a takeover.
• 1 October 2023: Nigeria deploys fighter jets, assisting in thwarting the coup.
• 3 October 2023: Benin's Foreign Affairs Minister announces the presence of regional troops in the country.
• 5 October 2023: Ongoing discussions about the duration of foreign military presence in Benin continue.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The current situation in Benin has clarified the number of foreign troops deployed, with approximately 200 soldiers confirmed by officials. The focus is now on maintaining order and preventing further unrest as the government initiates a manhunt for the coup plotters.

What was already established

Prior to these developments, there was rising concern over the security situation in northern Benin, exacerbated by a series of jihadist attacks linked to groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaeda. The Beninese government had faced criticism over its handling of these security challenges.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the direct impact on UK consumers and households remains minimal, the geopolitical instability in West Africa could affect international relations and trade. UK citizens with interests in the region may need to stay informed about travel advisories and security updates.

Businesses and jobs

For UK businesses operating in West Africa, ongoing instability could disrupt supply chains and create uncertainties in market conditions. Companies may need to reassess their risk management strategies and consider potential impacts on their operations in Benin and neighbouring countries.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may be prompted to engage more actively in discussions concerning West African security and democratic governance, particularly as ECOWAS takes a firmer stance against military coups. This could lead to new diplomatic strategies or partnerships aimed at supporting stability in the region.

Numbers that matter

• 200: The number of foreign soldiers currently assisting Benin's government.
• 50: The number of soldiers specifically sent from Ivory Coast as part of the regional deployment.
• 1: The number of confirmed coup attempts that occurred on 1 October 2023.

Definitions and jargon buster

• ECOWAS: Economic Community of West African States, a regional political and economic union.
• Mutineers: Soldiers who rebel against their commanding officers or government.
• Coup: A sudden, illegal seizure of power from a government.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the focus will be on stabilising the situation in Benin and apprehending those involved in the coup attempt. Continued cooperation among ECOWAS member states will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, the international community will likely monitor the political climate in Benin closely, with potential implications for upcoming elections scheduled for April 2024. The effectiveness of the regional forces in maintaining peace will be scrutinised.

Signals to watch

• Updates on the status of the coup plotters and any arrests made.
• The response of ECOWAS to further instability in the region.
• Public sentiment towards the government as the elections approach.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the situation through reputable news sources.
• Maintain awareness of travel advisories if planning to visit Benin or neighbouring countries.
• Engage with organisations that monitor political stability in West Africa.

Don’t

• Avoid engaging in political discussions that could escalate tensions.
• Do not travel to areas identified as high-risk without proper security measures.
• Disregard updates from official channels regarding the security situation.

Checklist

• Monitor news for developments related to the coup and government response.
• Review any business operations in West Africa for potential risks.
• Consider the implications of regional security on UK foreign relations.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation in Benin remains fluid, and while the immediate coup attempt has been thwarted, the potential for further unrest exists. The whereabouts of the coup leader and the motivations of the mutineers are still under investigation. Additionally, the effectiveness of the regional military presence in stabilising the country is uncertain, and political dynamics could shift quickly.

Bottom line

The recent coup attempt in Benin highlights ongoing security challenges in West Africa and the necessity for regional cooperation. With foreign troops now in place, the government aims to restore order and prepare for upcoming elections. The developments warrant close attention, particularly for those with vested interests in the region.

FAQs

What is the role of ECOWAS in Benin's security?

ECOWAS plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in West Africa by deploying troops to support governments facing threats, like the recent coup attempt in Benin.

How did Nigeria respond to the coup attempt in Benin?

Nigeria deployed fighter jets to assist Benin in thwarting the coup, describing the action as a defence of democracy.

What is the current situation regarding the coup plotters?

A manhunt is underway for those involved in the coup, with reports suggesting the leader is hiding in neighbouring Togo.