The Economic Community of West African States has condemned the recent violent attacks in Northern Benin that claimed dozens of lives.
The attacks occurred on Wednesday in the Point Trible area and were carried out by unidentified armed individuals.
In a statement on Sunday, the ECOWAS Commission extended its condolences to the government, security forces, and people of Benin, as well as to the families of soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
ECOWAS wished for a speedy recovery, which was also conveyed to those injured in the incident.
“The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Commission) unequivocally condemns the heinous attacks in the Point Trible area by unidentified armed men on Wednesday, 8 January 2025, which resulted in dozens of casualties.
“The ECOWAS Commission expresses its deepest condolences to the government, security forces, and people of the Republic of Benin, as well as to the families of the brave soldiers who lost their lives protecting their country and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured,” the statement from the commission read.
ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism in the region, stressing the importance of its ongoing Counterterrorism Plan of Action.
The organisation urged member states to strengthen cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing and border security, to address the growing threat of terrorism.
The regional body expressed solidarity with the government and people of Benin and reiterated its determination to support member states in ensuring the safety and security of citizens across West Africa.
“ECOWAS remains steadfast in its commitment to eradicate terrorism in West Africa, including through the ongoing operationalisation of the Counterterrorism Plan of Action in all its forms.
“ECOWAS calls on all member states to intensify their cooperation in intelligence sharing and border security. ECOWAS expresses its full solidarity with the government and people of Benin.
“It reiterates its determination to accompany Member States in their efforts to ensure the safety and security of Community citizens,” the statement added.
By Gift Habib @ThePUNCH
