Benin’s Interior Minister announced on Sunday that the armed forces successfully thwarted a coup attempt carried out by a group of soldiers who temporarily seized control of the national television station and declared the removal of President Patrice Talon. The rapid response by loyal military units restored order and reaffirmed the government’s control over the country.
Details of the Attempted Coup
The coup involved a small faction of soldiers who briefly took over the state television station to announce the dismissal of President Talon and the dissolution of government institutions. The military quickly regained control, preventing the plot from spreading to other parts of the country. Interior Minister Alassane Sido confirmed that authorities are also pursuing additional suspects, bringing the total to 46.
What Happened on State Television
The soldiers, identifying themselves as the "Military Reorganization Committee," announced early Sunday morning that they had dismissed President Talon and taken control of all state institutions. They named Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as the head of their committee. The television signal was interrupted briefly during the takeover, highlighting the limited reach of the coup plotters. Sources close to President Talon confirmed he was safe and that the regular army had regained control of the situation.
Military and Civilian Response
A military source stated that the group only controlled the television station. The regular army restored order, and the presidential residence remained secure. The French Embassy in Benin warned about gunfire near the presidential palace, advising nationals to stay indoors. Authorities are investigating to identify all participants and prevent further threats.
Political Context in Benin
#Benin 🇧🇯 : ‼️❌🛑Coup d’état au Benin 🇧🇯 | le Président Talon est démis de ses fonctions| Le Comité militaire pour la Réfondation (#CMR) a fait une déclaration à lue la télévision 👇👇 pic.twitter.com/IJXvXAvGH2
— Steve Wembi (@wembi_steve) December 7, 2025
#Benin 🇧🇯 : ‼️❌🛑Coup d’état au Benin 🇧🇯 | le Président Talon est démis de ses fonctions| Le Comité militaire pour la Réfondation (#CMR) a fait une déclaration à lue la télévision 👇👇 pic.twitter.com/IJXvXAvGH2
— Steve Wembi (@wembi_steve) December 7, 2025Benin has a history of coups and attempted coups, though the nation has maintained a relatively stable democracy in recent decades. President Patrice Talon has been in power since 2016 and is set to complete his second and final term next year. While Talon has been praised for his economic reforms, opposition parties criticize him for authoritarian practices, particularly as the next presidential election approaches.
Regional Implications
The attempted coup in Benin comes just days after a similar military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, signaling a concerning trend of political instability in West Africa. Analysts emphasize the importance of vigilance to safeguard democratic institutions in the region.
Restoring Stability
Benin’s military swiftly contained the situation, demonstrating loyalty to the constitutional government. President Talon’s administration is expected to reinforce security measures and closely monitor military units. Civil society organizations and international observers call for calm and adherence to democratic processes to prevent further unrest.
Conclusion
The foiled coup attempt in Benin highlights the fragile balance of political power in West Africa. The swift response by loyal military units ensured the safety of President Talon and restored order. Ongoing investigations will determine further measures to safeguard democracy and national security.