By: The Trek News Desk
Tension has escalated sharply in the West African nation of Benin, where a group of soldiers appeared on national television claiming they had removed President Patrice Talon from power.
The announcement triggered immediate concern across the capital, Cotonou, prompting the French Embassy to advise foreign nationals to remain indoors after sporadic gunfire was heard near the presidential residence.
Rebel Soldiers Announce Power Grab
During their televised statement, the soldiers declared three immediate actions:
- Suspension of the national constitution
- Closure of all land borders and airspace
- Formation of a Military Transition Council, to be led by Lt. Col. Tigri Pascal
The rebel faction accused President Talon of mismanaging the country and steering it in the “wrong direction,” though they did not provide further details.
Government Declares the Coup Attempt Contained
Despite the dramatic broadcast, the government insists the situation is under control. Foreign Minister Shegun Adjadi Bakari told local media that the majority of the regular armed forces remain loyal to the administration, adding that security units are “rapidly stabilising the situation.”
A senior official in the presidency described the dissenting group as “small and isolated,” clarifying that they had gained control only of the television station. “The city and the country remain secure,” the official emphasised.
Political Background
President Talon, 67, widely known as the “Cotton King”, entered office in 2016. He is set to complete his second and final term in 2026, having repeatedly stated that he does not intend to seek a third. His chosen successor for the April 2026 presidential elections has already been identified, aiming to ensure a smooth political transition.
Growing Instability in the Region
Though Benin has long been recognised as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies, the landscape has shifted in recent years. Extremist groups linked to ISIS and al-Qaeda have gradually pushed southward, increasing pressure on the country’s security forces.
This attempted coup follows closely on the heels of last week’s overthrow of the president of Guinea-Bissau, adding to the region’s rising political turmoil. Over the past few years, Niger, Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso have all witnessed military takeovers, fuelling concerns that West Africa’s fragile stability may be deteriorating further.
Source: News Agencies
