ABUJA, NIGERIA — Retired Major-General John Enenche has downplayed fears that the recent attempted coup in the neighbouring Benin Republic could inspire similar actions in Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Enenche insisted that Nigeria’s political and security systems make such an event nearly impossible.
He emphasized that the nation’s size, diversity, and the strength of its democratic institutions protect it from unconstitutional power grabs.
Reacting to the failed coup attempt in Benin, Enenche said Nigeria’s system is layered with checks and balances designed to prevent illegal takeovers.
“The Nigerian system is structured with safeguards that make it extremely difficult for anyone to seize power unconstitutionally,” he said.
“I’m not too worried that it can happen in Nigeria. It’s impossible for me, I stand to be corrected.”
He further highlighted the professionalism of the Nigerian Armed Forces, noting that the military has consistently demonstrated loyalty to democratic governance, respect for civilian authority, and adherence to constitutional order over the years.
Enenche pointed out that decades of military reforms have strengthened civil–military relations in Nigeria, ensuring that the armed forces remain under civilian control.
According to him, this makes the country fundamentally different from smaller nations where coups are sometimes easier to execute.
He explained that Nigeria’s complex national security architecture, combined with intelligence networks and early detection systems, significantly reduces the chances of coup plots going unnoticed.
“The armed forces have shown restraint and loyalty even during moments of political tension,” Enenche said.
“These measures, along with our democratic processes, help keep the country stable and secure.”
While Enenche acknowledged that West Africa continues to experience pockets of instability, he said Nigeria is largely insulated due to its robust institutions.
He contrasted Nigeria’s situation with smaller states where coups have occurred, noting that Nigeria’s size, population, and security structures make coordination of such attempts extremely difficult.
Experts agree that Nigeria’s military reforms, combined with strong intelligence capabilities, have helped reduce the risk of coups.
While vigilance remains essential, the country’s history of constitutional adherence by the military provides an added layer of stability.
The retired general’s comments were captured in a video, which can be viewed between 7:53 and 8:03 on the official channel.
His remarks have generated discussion on the effectiveness of Nigeria’s democratic and security systems in protecting the country from sudden power seizures.
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