Abuja-based human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has attributed the rising appeal of military coups in Africa to the reckless and arrogant behaviour of political leaders.

Speaking in response to an attempted coup in Benin, Adeyanju said public frustration stems from politicians who squander trust and act without accountability. “African politicians are too badly behaved, which is why coups are now so attractive and acceptable by the populace,” he stated, citing leaders like Wike and Akpabio as examples.

Adeyanju warned that unless politicians act with transparency, humility, and respect for the rule of law, military interventions will continue to gain sympathy among disillusioned citizens. His comments reflect broader concerns about democratic backsliding across West Africa, including Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Benin.