Benin Coup Attempt: Government Thwarts Mutiny as Soldiers Announce Dissolution on State TV

The benin coup attempt on Sunday, December 7, sparked major political turmoil as armed soldiers briefly took control of state television and announced the dissolution of President Patrice Talon’s government. Hours later, authorities confirmed the mutiny had been foiled, restoring control across Cotonou.

Gunfire Erupts in Cotonou

Gunshots rang out across several neighborhoods in Cotonou early Sunday morning, alarming residents who reported hearing heavy firing from around 8 AM local time. Police vehicles were seen speeding through the streets as tensions escalated.

Soldiers Announce Dissolution of Government

A group of at least eight armed soldiers appeared on state television and declared that a military committee led by Colonel Tigri Pascal had dissolved national institutions. They announced the suspension of the constitution and the closure of all air, land, and sea borders, calling themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation.”

Mutineers Cite Security Concerns

In their statement, the soldiers claimed to offer Benin “a truly new era” and criticized the government’s handling of security in northern regions. They also expressed frustration over what they described as neglect toward fallen members of the armed forces.

Government Says Coup Was Foiled

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later announced via Facebook that the benin coup attempt had been thwarted. He provided no details about President Talon’s whereabouts at the time but confirmed that loyal forces had remained committed to the republic.

President Talon Condemns the Mutiny

Nearly 12 hours after the first gunfire, Talon made his public statement condemning the attempted coup. He offered condolences to victims and vowed that the “treachery will not go unpunished.” He confirmed that loyalists had recaptured all strategic positions.

Security Support and Arrests

Talon, in office since 2016, has faced criticism over growing jihadist attacks in northern Benin. Authorities reported that 14 people had been arrested in connection with the attempted takeover. Nigeria supported Benin by deploying fighter jets at Talon’s request, while ECOWAS sent standby forces from multiple West African countries.

Historical Context

Benin has a history of coups following its independence in 1960, though it has remained politically stable since 1991. This benin coup attempt occurs just months before the April 2026 presidential election. The ruling coalition has named Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as its candidate.

International Response

The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou announced it was monitoring the situation and suspended consular services for Monday, December 8, following the benin coup attempt.

The benin coup attempt created significant unrest as mutinous soldiers briefly seized state media and attempted to dissolve the government. The Talon administration regained control within hours, arrested suspected mutineers, and received regional military support. With elections approaching in 2026, the incident marks another setback for stability in West Africa.

Thought you’d like to know

1. What triggered the Benin coup attempt?

The benin coup attempt was initiated when a group of soldiers claimed they were acting due to deteriorating security conditions, particularly in northern Benin. They cited neglect of fallen soldiers and dissatisfaction with current leadership. Their televised announcement included dissolving national institutions and suspending the constitution.

2. How did the government respond to the benin coup attempt?

Authorities quickly announced that the benin coup attempt had been foiled. Loyal security forces regained control of key locations, including the military camp and state TV. President Talon condemned the mutiny and pledged accountability.

3. Who led the soldiers involved in the benin coup attempt?

The mutinous soldiers said they were acting under a committee led by Colonel Tigri Pascal. They called themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation.” Their televised declaration briefly disrupted national stability.

4. Did any foreign nations assist during the benin coup attempt?

Yes, Nigeria deployed fighter jets at the Beninese government’s request. ECOWAS also sent standby forces from several member countries. Their involvement supported the restoration of order after the benin coup attempt.

5. How does the benin coup attempt affect upcoming elections?

The benin coup attempt adds political tension ahead of the 2026 presidential election. With the ruling coalition already selecting a candidate, the incident raises concerns about national stability. Authorities insist the situation is under control.