The West African Bar Association (WABA) has strongly condemned the recent coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin, warning that the resurgence of unconstitutional seizures of power poses a serious threat to democracy, the rule of law, and regional stability in West Africa.
In a press statement issued on December 7, 2025, WABA expressed grave concern over what it described as a disturbing wave of military incursions into governance across the sub-region. The Association emphasized that such actions constitute a direct violation of constitutional order and undermine decades of progress toward democratic consolidation in West Africa.
Crisis in Guinea-Bissau
WABA described the situation in Guinea-Bissau as particularly alarming, noting that it had earlier intervened in the country’s political affairs by condemning what it termed the autocratic tendencies of former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. According to the Association, sustained pressure from WABA and other institutions, including ECOWAS, led to the establishment of a transitional process and the conduct of general elections on November 23, 2025.
However, WABA lamented that while vote collation was at an advanced stage and the elections had been widely reported as peaceful, the military abruptly intervened. The Association noted that the coup has drawn widespread criticism, especially as President Embaló reportedly announced the coup himself and addressed the media afterward.
Reaffirming its position, WABA stated that any seizure of power through unconstitutional means is unacceptable under all circumstances. The Association warned that such actions threaten democratic institutions, fundamental rights, and peace within the sub-region.
WABA demanded the immediate restoration of democratic structures in Guinea-Bissau, the release of election results, and the inauguration of the duly elected government. It also called for the protection of civilians, political actors, legal practitioners, journalists, and electoral officials, as well as the unconditional release of all unlawfully detained persons.
The Association further urged ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community to take swift and coordinated action, including diplomatic and targeted sanctions where necessary, to ensure a rapid return to constitutional order. It stressed the importance of safeguarding judicial independence, freedom of expression, due process, and access to justice throughout the crisis.
Attempted Coup in Benin
Turning to developments in the Republic of Benin, WABA condemned the attempted military coup, describing it as another troubling sign of democratic fragility in the region. The Association praised the Beninese security forces for thwarting the plot and commended the Nigerian Air Force for its support in neutralizing fleeing coup plotters.
WABA specifically lauded the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for authorizing military assistance to Benin in line with the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. According to WABA, Nigeria’s timely intervention played a critical role in preventing escalation and restoring normalcy, demonstrating a strong commitment to regional security cooperation and democratic defense.
The Association also acknowledged the efforts of regional and international partners who contributed to safeguarding constitutional order in Benin during the crisis.
WABA called on Beninese authorities to conduct transparent investigations, ensure due process, and uphold human rights in addressing matters arising from the attempted coup. It further urged ECOWAS to remain vigilant and strengthen collective security mechanisms against anti-democratic threats.
Commitment to Democracy
In its conclusion, WABA reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law, promoting democratic stability, and protecting human rights across West Africa. The Association stated that it would continue to closely monitor developments in Guinea-Bissau and collaborate with regional and international partners to ensure the restoration and preservation of democratic governance.
The statement was signed by Bornor Varmah Esq., Acting President of WABA, and Adesina Adegbite, FICMC, MCIArb, General Secretary.
