Senate backs Tinubu’s troops deployment to Benin Republic

The Senate on Tuesday granted approval for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deployment of Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin, endorsing an action the president had taken days earlier to avert an attempted disruption of democratic governance in the neighbouring country.

The request was contained in a letter read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Tinubu had ordered the deployment last week to forestall an unconstitutional takeover of Benin Republic and instability in the West African subregion, but didn’t seek legislative approval in line with constitutional requirements.

Following the reading of the letter, the Senate dissolved into the Committee of the Whole to scrutinise the request. During the session, lawmakers examined the security, humanitarian, and diplomatic implications of the deployment.

Key concerns included the potential influx of refugees into Nigeria, the safety of border communities, and the broader consequences for regional peace and security.

After an extensive debate, the chamber returned to plenary and overwhelmingly voted to ratify the president’s action.

Senate President Akpabio, then presented the committee’s report for confirmation, which senators affirmed without objection before approving the deployment through a second voice vote.

In his remarks, Akpabio praised President Tinubu for taking steps to stabilise the region and upholding constitutional norms by seeking Senate consent, even after an urgent deployment.

“This is a necessary intervention. The President has acted in the interest of Nigeria’s national security and the protection of democracy in West Africa. A threat to one is a threat to all,” he said.

He added that the Senate’s resolution would be communicated to the President immediately.

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