Reports from Cotonou indicate that a small group of soldiers claimed to overthrow the government in an attempted mutiny on Sunday. According to Interior Minister Alassane Seidou, the incident was “a destabilisation attempt” carried out by a limited group within the armed forces. Officials insist the situation was contained swiftly.
Claims of Seizing Power on State TV
Earlier in the day, at least eight soldiers led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri appeared briefly on state television, declaring that President Patrice Talon had been removed from office.
They also claimed to have:
- dissolved national institutions
- closed all borders
- suspended political parties
- established a “Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR)”
The broadcast signal was cut shortly after.
Government Response: Situation Under Control
Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari stated that the mutineers only controlled the TV station.
He emphasised that “a large part of the army remains loyalist,” adding that security forces were reclaiming all sites.
The presidency later confirmed that:
- President Talon is safe
- loyal forces were regaining full control
- the city and country remained secure
Gunfire was reported around Camp Guezo near the president’s residence, but most of Cotonou reportedly remained calm.
Security Movements in Cotonou
Witness accounts noted soldiers blocking:
- access to the presidency
- entrances to the state broadcaster
- several high-security zones including international institution districts
The airport remained functional, and civilian activity continued normally in most areas.
Regional Condemnation of the Attempt
Both ECOWAS and the African Union (AU) condemned the attempted takeover, expressing support for Benin’s constitutional order and urging stability.
The AU reaffirmed its backing for President Talon and committed to supporting the restoration of “constitutional normalcy.”
Context: Political Tensions and a Region of Repeated Coups
The claims and attempted mutiny occur during a period of political tension in Benin. Analysts note opposition repression and recent arrests of major opponents. President Talon is expected to step down in April after completing ten years in power.
West Africa has seen a surge of coups and coup attempts in recent years, including in Guinea-Bissau, Gabon, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.
Benin has historically been more stable, making this attempted mutiny notable within the region’s broader political climate.
