The West African Bar Association (WABA) has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a “dangerous resurgence of military interference” in democratic governance across West Africa, following a coup in Guinea-Bissau and a failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin.

In a press statement dated 7th December, 2025, WABA warned that unconstitutional seizures of power pose a serious threat to the rule of law, fundamental rights and regional stability, calling on regional and international bodies to act swiftly to protect democratic institutions.

WABA expressed particular concern over developments in Guinea-Bissau, where the military intervened while results from the country’s November 23 general elections were still being collated.

The association noted that it had earlier condemned what it described as anti-democratic tendencies under former President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and had, alongside ECOWAS and other institutions, pushed for a transition that eventually led to the elections.

“Sadly, while the results collation exercise was at an advanced stage, the military suddenly struck,” WABA said.

The group questioned the credibility of the coup, pointing out that the election was widely reported as peaceful and that the president himself publicly announced the takeover and addressed the media afterward.

WABA called for the immediate restoration of constitutional order, the release of election results and the inauguration of a civilian government. It also demanded the unconditional release of all unlawfully detained persons, including lawyers, journalists, political actors, electoral officials and civil society members.

“The legal profession across West Africa stands firmly against actions that threaten democracy and undermine constitutional authority,” the statement said.

WABA also condemned an attempted coup in the Republic of Benin, describing it as “outrightly unacceptable,” even though it was ultimately unsuccessful.

The association praised what it called the decisive response of the Beninese Army, supported by the Nigerian Air Force, which it said helped neutralize the coup plotters.

In a rare show of explicit commendation, WABA applauded Nigeria’s government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for authorizing military assistance under the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.

“Nigeria’s timely intervention reflects a steadfast commitment to regional security cooperation and the defense of democratic institutions,” WABA said.

WABA urged ECOWAS, the African Union and the broader international community to remain vigilant and, where necessary, impose targeted diplomatic and political sanctions to deter future unconstitutional takeovers.

It also called on Beninese authorities to ensure transparent investigations and strict adherence to due process in handling those linked to the attempted coup.

The statement underscores growing concern among legal and civil society groups about the persistence of coups and attempted power grabs in West Africa, despite regional frameworks designed to prevent them.

WABA reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and said it would continue to monitor the situation in Guinea-Bissau closely while working with regional and international partners to uphold democratic governance.

See the full statement below, also issued in English, French and Portuguese, jointly signed by Bornor Varmah, Esq., Acting President of WABA, and Adesina Adegbite, FICMC, MCIArb, General Secretary.