Benin’s President Patrice Talon announced Sunday that the government has regained full control following a coup attempt led by a small group of soldiers. He called on citizens to return to their regular activities, assuring them that security had been restored.
Talon addressed the nation on state broadcaster Benin TV, explaining that the group had tried to attack state institutions and destabilize the democratic system. He said he acted immediately, as president and commander-in-chief, to protect the country and maintain order.
The president thanked members of the armed forces who remained “republican and loyal,” emphasizing that their commitment was essential to stopping the mutiny. He also warned that those involved in the plot “will not go unpunished.”
Earlier in the day, a faction of soldiers appeared on state television claiming they had removed Talon from power and formed a “Military Committee for Refoundation” led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri. Government officials swiftly rejected the announcement.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later confirmed that the coup attempt had been foiled and urged citizens to continue their daily routines. According to local news outlet 24 Heures Au Benin, security forces are actively searching for Tigri.
The attempted takeover follows the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau in late November, which brought Gen. Horta Inta-A to power as transitional president, raising concerns about rising instability in the region.
