Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a dramatic turn of events early Sunday, a group of soldiers in Benin appeared on state television to declare the overthrow of the government, claiming that they had removed Patrice Talon from office. The soldiers — self‑described as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) — announced suspension of the constitution, dissolution of existing state institutions and closure of national borders.
The unrest reportedly began in the early hours with an armed assault on President Talon’s residence in the Le Guézo district of Porto‑Novo. Following the attack, the contingent reportedly seized control of the state broadcasting service, using national television to broadcast their declaration of the takeover. Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri has been named by the CMR as head of the new military administration.
“Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as President of the Republic,” the broadcasted statement declared, adding that all governmental institutions were dissolved with immediate effect. The group said the takeover aims to “restore order” and assured citizens that the seizure of power was necessary to reset the country’s political direction.
As of midday, the situation remains tense and fluid. Reports indicate gunfire near Camp Guézo — the military installation close to the president’s home. The French Embassy in Cotonou issued an alert for its citizens, urging them to stay indoors and avoid non-essential movement. The current whereabouts of President Talon remain unverified.
In response to the unfolding crisis, loyalist elements within the regular army have reportedly begun efforts to reclaim control over strategic state facilities. According to an official statement cited by AFP, the Defence and Security Council says the loyal forces are regaining control and the country remains “completely secure.” Nevertheless, uncertainty persists over whether the coup plotters will consolidate power successfully.
The purported coup marks Benin’s most serious security crisis in decades. The country has long been viewed as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies. Since gaining independence in 1960, Benin experienced a succession of military regimes until 1991, after which it maintained uninterrupted civilian rule. Talon came to power in 2016 and was reelected in 2021; he was set to step down in April 2026 after two terms.
The development comes amid a wider regional pattern of military interventions in governance. In recent years, several West and Central African states have witnessed coups or attempted takeovers, raising grave concerns about the resilience of democratic institutions across the region.
For now, the coming hours and days will be critical. International organisations, neighbouring states and foreign embassies are closely monitoring the situation. Citizens of Benin — and regional partners — wait anxiously to see whether the military clique will succeed in consolidating control, or whether loyalist forces and international pressure will restore constitutional order.
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