Coup Attempt Foiled in Benin

A coup attempt in Benin has been successfully thwarted, according to the country’s Interior Minister. In a video address published on Facebook, Alassane Seidou confirmed that the Beninese Armed Forces neutralized a mutiny early on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Seidou explained that a small faction of soldiers attempted to destabilize state institutions. However, the military leadership remained loyal to the Republic. They upheld their oath and quickly regained control of the situation.

Rebel Declaration and Media Blackout

Earlier in the day, a group of soldiers appeared on Benin’s state television. They announced the dissolution of the government in an apparent coup. Identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation,” the group claimed that the President had been removed. Additionally, they declared that all state institutions were dissolved. The soldiers appointed Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri as the president of the military committee.

Currently, there is no official news regarding President Patrice Talon. This follows reports of gunshots near the presidential residence. However, the signal to state television and public radio, which was previously cut, has been restored.

Regional Instability and ECOWAS Response

This failed coup is the latest in a series of military takeovers rocking West Africa. For instance, a military coup in Guinea-Bissau removed former President Umaro Embalo just last month. That incident followed a contested election where both candidates declared victory.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the events in Benin.

“ECOWAS strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin,” the bloc stated. They promised to support the government in defending the country’s Constitution.

Election Tensions and Political Context

President Talon took power in 2016. He is scheduled to step down next April following the presidential election. His party’s choice, former Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, is the current favorite to win. Meanwhile, the electoral commission rejected opposition candidate Renaud Agbodjo due to insufficient sponsors.

Political tensions have simmered recently. Last month, the legislature voted to extend the presidential term from five to seven years, although the two-term limit remains.

Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Benin has witnessed multiple coups. However, the country has enjoyed relative political stability since 1991. Notably, earlier in January, two associates of President Talon were sentenced to 20 years in prison for an alleged 2024 coup plot.