Military Officers Claim Control in Benin
Soldiers in Benin appeared on national television announcing that they have removed President Patrice Talon from power and taken control of the government.
They declared the constitution suspended and air and land borders shut down across the country.
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| ⚠️ Soldiers Announce Coup in Benin — President Talon Reportedly Removed Amid Rising West African Instability |
The French embassy reported gunfire near the presidential residence in Cotonou, Benin’s commercial capital and seat of government.
Government Denies Coup Success
Despite the announcement, officials close to President Talon insist that the situation remains under control.
Foreign Minister Shegun Adjadi Bakari stated:
“Most of the army remains loyal, and we are securing the situation.”
Presidency sources also told reporters that the coup leaders only control the TV station, while the nation’s security forces remain on alert.
The president’s exact location has not been disclosed.
Tension and Security Presence in Cotonou
Residents reported blocked roads and a heavy military presence across key areas of the city.
Foreign embassies — including France, Russia, and the US — urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid the presidential district.
A Transitional Council Announced
The coup faction declared Lt.-Col. Tigri Pascal as the head of a transitional council, accusing President Talon of poor governance and restricting political freedoms.
Benin’s Political and Economic Background
Benin has long been seen as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies, although it remains among the world’s poorest nations despite being a major cotton producer.
President Talon — known as the “King of Cotton” — has overseen economic improvements but faced criticism for suppressing opposition:
- Major opposition candidates barred from elections
- Crackdown on dissent and political rivals
Talon, 67, is expected to step down next year after completing his second term, with elections due in April.
Another Coup in an Unstable Region
This latest event comes just a week after the overthrow of Guinea-Bissau’s president.
In recent years, West Africa has seen a wave of coups including:
- Niger
- Mali
- Burkina Faso
- Guinea
Additionally, jihadist groups linked to ISIS and al-Qaeda have expanded operations into previously stable areas — including Benin.
❓Your Opinion Matters
Do you think this attempted coup signals a deeper crisis spreading across West Africa, or will Benin’s democracy withstand the pressure?
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