Benin foils coup: Loyal troops stop attempt to oust President Talon

Benin's government says a faction within the armed forces attempted a takeover but was stopped by loyal troops. The crisis left President Patrice Talon safe in a secure location, and authorities moved quickly to stabilize the country. The incident also sparked blasts in Cotonou and drew regional attention to West Africa's security challenges.

What happened

Early on Sunday, a group of soldiers announced they had ousted Talon and seized key state institutions. Within hours, security forces said the mutiny was contained and the government had regained control. Fourteen people were arrested in connection with the plot, including a soldier who had been dismissed from service.

Ahead of the mutiny, flight data showed three aircraft entering Benin's airspace from neighboring Nigeria. Two returned to Lagos, while a third appeared to head toward a Nigerian airbase in Kanji. In at least one moment, two aircraft flew in tandem, suggesting they were military jets.

A French air force plane was observed patrolling the skies over Cotonou, while diplomats denied earlier claims that Talon had taken refuge in the French embassy in the port city.

Eyewitnesses reported gunfire near the presidential residence, and state broadcaster staff were briefly held hostage as the situation unfolded.

Context, responses, and consequences

West Africa has seen a wave of coups in recent years, prompting concerns about regional stability. Benin has long been viewed as one of Africa's more stable democracies, though critics say Talon's government has curtailed dissent and implemented controversial policies.

The mutiny was led by Lt Col Pascal Tigri, who accused Talon of mismanaging security, especially in the north where jihadist activity has risen near Niger and Burkina Faso. He and others also cited reductions in health funding and higher taxes in their grievances.

Regional reactions were swift. Nigeria condemned the attempt as a direct assault on democracy. The African Union (AU) and Ecowas urged a return to constitutional order, while Benin confirmed the arrests and pledged a full investigation.

Benin's political landscape has been evolving, including constitutional amendments that expanded parliament and adjusted terms for elected officials, while Talon has pledged not to seek a third term. He has named Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as his preferred successor.

Diplomats urged citizens to stay indoors or avoid sensitive areas around the capital, with both French and Russian embassies advising caution and the U.S. embassy recommending staying away from the presidential area in Cotonou.

Expert analysis

Analysts say the rapid government response prevented a wider crisis, but the episode highlights ongoing security and governance challenges across the region. The incident underscores the need for credible institutions and transparent security reforms in West Africa.

What this means going forward

The immediate priority is restoring calm, protecting civilians, and conducting a credible investigation into the mutiny. Benin's leadership must reassure both citizens and international partners while addressing the factors that fueled the unrest.

Key facts

• Mutiny led by Lt Col Pascal Tigri aimed at destabilizing state institutions
• Fourteen arrests linked to the plot
• Explosions reported in Cotonou; gunfire near the presidential residence reported
• Condemnations from Ecowas and the AU; calls for constitutional order

Benin, a major cotton producer with a growing economy, remains a focal point for regional stability as authorities work to maintain security and progress.

Summary

The government says a small faction within Benin's armed forces attempted to topple the administration but was stopped by loyal troops. President Talon is safe, and security services are pursuing those involved. The episode follows several recent regional coups, highlighting the fragile security landscape in West Africa.

Key insight: Benin's mutiny underscores persistent security and governance challenges in West Africa and the need for robust, accountable security forces to uphold constitutional order. BBC