Amanze Chinonye
Benin’s government says an attempted coup d’état launched early Sunday has been successfully foiled, after soldiers briefly seized state television and claimed to have removed President Patrice Talon from power.
Authorities now report that Talon is safe, security forces are in control, and the situation is stabilising across the country.
The incident began when a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) appeared on national television at dawn, announcing the dissolution of state institutions, suspension of the constitution, and closure of borders.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThey named Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri as the new leader of what they described as a transitional authority. Their broadcast followed heavy gunfire around the presidential residence and Camp Guézo, sparking widespread alarm.
But by late morning, government officials and military commanders said loyal forces had regained control of all strategic locations. According to updates reported by LSI Africa, President Patrice Talon was declared safe, the national army had secured the presidential palace, and troops had taken back public television headquarters after the coup plotters’ broadcast signal was cut. ORTB later resumed normal programming.
READ ALSO : Benin Plunged Into Uncertainty as Soldiers Announce Ouster of President Talon
The Interior Minister, in a brief statement, said the “attempted destabilisation” had been neutralised and urged citizens to remain calm. International outlets, confirmed that security forces loyal to the government retained broad control and acted swiftly to suppress the mutiny.
The African Union and ECOWAS strongly condemned the events, reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes of government. Diplomatic missions in Cotonou issued advisories but reported no major disruptions outside the initial security cordon around key state facilities.
The attempted coup occurred against the backdrop of growing political tension following controversial constitutional changes passed in November, extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and introducing a senate. The soldiers who staged the takeover cited these reforms, governance concerns, and security issues in the north as justification for their move.
As of Sunday afternoon, authorities had not disclosed whether any arrests had been made, nor clarified the whereabouts of Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri and the soldiers involved. However, the government maintained that the Republic remains under full constitutional control.
Prime Business Africa will continue to monitor developments as Benin moves to restore stability following the failed attempt to overthrow its elected government.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
