Nigeria, the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have strongly condemned the attempted military takeover in Benin Republic, describing it as a renewed threat to democratic stability in West Africa.
Their reactions came after gunfire and confusion were reported in parts of Cotonou when a group of soldiers announced on national television that they had removed President Patrice Talon from office.
Benin’s government, however, said the attempt was swiftly foiled. Officials confirmed that loyal forces repelled the mutineers who tried to seize power in the early hours of the morning.
According to authorities, the attackers — dressed in military uniforms — first launched an assault on the presidential residence in Cotonou. After failing to capture the president, the group stormed the state-run Office de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (ORTB), taking control of the national broadcast signal.
Security forces, including the National Guard, responded quickly and surrounded the station, cutting off the coupists. By afternoon, government troops had secured major installations and restored calm across the capital. President Patrice Talon was reported safe and later made a televised appearance.
Talon, in a short address on state TV, said the situation was “totally under control” and praised loyal troops for their swift intervention.
He said the actions of the military “allowed us to thwart these adventurers,” describing the perpetrators as “a small group of soldiers.”
“This treachery will not go unpunished,” he added.
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