Benin reverses ban on imports aimed at sanctioned neighboring country

Benin has announced the lifting of sanctions that had prevented imported goods from passing through the autonomous port of Cotonou to Niger.

The decision comes after the ouster of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum in a recent coup. Bart Johan Van Eenoo, director of Benin’s Port Authority of Cotonou, stated that the suspension of imported goods destined for Niger at the port of Cotonou has been lifted due to the improved operational conditions and reduced congestion at the port.

The sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had caused significant challenges, including stranded trucks carrying essential goods at the closed border between Benin and Niger.

The military government in Niger has criticized the regional sanctions, alleging that ECOWAS is acting on behalf of former colonial power France.

The ECOWAS Court of Justice recently rejected a request by the coup leader to suspend the sanctions, emphasizing that the military rulers must cooperate with a diplomatic committee for the sanctions to be lifted.

The group had previously issued a warning about using military force against the leaders of the coup, and some of Niger’s neighboring countries, such as Benin and Nigeria, had expressed their willingness to contribute troops to the armed mission supported by Paris.

In September, Niamey ended a military cooperation agreement with Benin, accusing the Beninese government of allowing the deployment of troops, mercenaries, and weapons for a planned invasion of Niger by France and ECOWAS. Recently, President Patrice Talon of Benin called for a swift restoration of relations between his country and neighboring Niger, emphasizing the importance of condemning, demanding, and taking stock at the appropriate times.