Security agencies in Benin have launched an intensive manhunt for a group of soldiers accused of attempting to overthrow the government in the early hours of Sunday, in an incident that briefly plunged the country into confusion and raised fresh fears about democratic stability in West Africa. Authorities say the suspected coup plotters fled with an unknown number of hostages after their bid to seize power was swiftly crushed by loyalist forces, with military assistance from neighbouring Nigeria.
The unrest began when armed men, later identified as members of Benin’s military, appeared on the country’s national television and made a dramatic announcement claiming they had taken control of the government. At roughly the same time, residents living near the presidential compound in Cotonou and Porto-Novo reported hearing gunfire and several loud explosions, heightening panic across the capital region. Footage shared on social media showed frightened civilians sheltering indoors, while roads leading to government buildings were quickly sealed off by security personnel.
President Patrice Talon later addressed the nation, assuring citizens that the situation had been “fully contained” and that loyal security forces had regained control of key locations. He praised the armed forces and intelligence services for acting decisively, saying their swift response had prevented what could have been a national disaster. However, he also confirmed that some individuals had been taken hostage by fleeing mutineers, although he did not specify the exact number or their identities.
According to government spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbedji, at least 14 people have been arrested in connection with the attempted coup, including former and current members of the armed forces. Local journalists reported that most of those detained were directly involved in storming the national television station, which the rebels had used to broadcast their takeover message. Among them was said to be a soldier who had previously been dismissed from the military, though authorities have not officially confirmed individual identities.
The group behind the failed plot claimed to be acting under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri. His whereabouts remain unknown, and security services are continuing to pursue him and others believed to be at large. In his national address, President Talon warned that those responsible would be held fully accountable, stating that this “act of betrayal” would not be allowed to go unpunished.
Nigeria played a crucial role in restoring order, following a formal request for support from the Beninese government. Nigerian spokespersons later confirmed that fighter jets were deployed near the border and that military support helped to drive the mutineers out of key positions, including a broadcasting facility and a military camp. Flight tracking data also showed multiple Nigerian aircraft entering Benin’s airspace just before powerful explosions were heard in parts of Cotonou, likely the result of targeted airstrikes. The full extent of damage or injuries from these strikes remains unclear.
Although Benin has long been considered one of West Africa’s more politically stable nations, recent years have seen growing tensions. The country faces rising insecurity in its northern regions, where extremist groups operating in Burkina Faso and Niger have expanded their reach southward. Beninese troops have suffered repeated attacks along the border, increasing frustration within the ranks of the army.
In a statement before fleeing, the rebel soldiers criticised President Talon’s handling of national security, accusing him of abandoning soldiers on the frontline and neglecting their families. They also voiced anger over internal issues such as cuts to health services, tax increases, and restrictions on political activities. These grievances have resonated with some segments of the population who are struggling with high living costs and limited public services.
Benin, a former French colony and one of Africa’s leading cotton producers, still ranks among the world’s poorest nations despite ongoing economic reforms. Although President Talon has been praised for infrastructure development and efforts to modernise the economy since taking office in 2016, his government has also faced criticism for limiting political opposition and tightening control over the media.
Talon is nearing the end of his second term and is constitutionally barred from running again in the April elections next year. He has publicly supported Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as a potential successor. Recent legal changes, including the creation of a Senate and the extension of terms for some elected officials, have fuelled debate over the future direction of the country’s democracy.
International reaction to the attempted coup was swift. Nigeria described the incident as a “direct assault on democracy,” while the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union condemned the action and reaffirmed their stance against any unconstitutional change of government. Several embassies, including those of France, Russia, and the United States, urged their citizens in Benin to remain indoors and avoid areas around government buildings.
The incident comes during a period of unprecedented political instability in the region. In recent years, military leaders have seized power in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea. Just days before the Benin attempt, reports emerged of political upheaval in Guinea-Bissau, further highlighting the fragile state of governance in parts of West Africa.
Source:Africa Publicity
Related News…
International Community Rejects Alleged Coup Attempt in Benin as Authorities Reassert Control
