Benin Thwarts Coup Attempt as Regional Instability Grows

Benin’s government says it stopped a coup attempt on Sunday. A group of soldiers tried to seize power in the West African nation. The incident happened in the economic capital, Cotonou, on December 7, 2025.

Forces loyal to President Patrice Talon quickly regained control. The attempt highlights growing threats to democracy in the region. Several neighboring countries have recently fallen under military rule.

Soldiers Announced Takeover on State Television

At least eight armed soldiers appeared on national television. They announced a military committee had taken over. The group, led by Colonel Tigri Pascal, said they were dissolving institutions.

They also suspended the constitution and closed all borders. Their statement promised a “new era” for the Beninese people. The broadcast was cut off shortly after it began.

According to Reuters, loyalist forces moved swiftly. Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed the coup was foiled hours later. The state TV signal was restored so the government could address the nation.

Gunfire was reported in several Cotonou neighborhoods near the president’s residence. The French embassy warned its citizens to stay indoors. By afternoon, calm was largely restored with police deployed across the city.

A Tense Region Faces Another Test

This attempt is the latest shock in a volatile region. Militaries have seized power in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali in recent years. Just last month, Guinea-Bissau experienced its own coup attempt.

The incident comes as Benin prepares for a presidential election in April. President Talon is set to finish his tenure. Critics argue recent constitutional changes have concentrated power.

The soldiers cited security concerns in their televised statement. Northern Benin faces spillover violence from jihadist conflicts nearby. An Al Qaeda-linked attack killed 54 Beninese soldiers in April.

The government reported 14 arrests linked to the plot by Sunday afternoon. Regional bodies ECOWAS and the African Union condemned the action. The situation remains fluid but under government control.

The failed Benin coup attempt underscores the fragile state of democracy in West Africa. It shows how security challenges can fuel instability. The government’s swift response has prevented a crisis for now.

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Who led the attempted coup in Benin?

The attempt was announced by soldiers led by Colonel Tigri Pascal. They formed a military committee claiming to take power. The group read a statement on national television before being ousted.

Was anyone hurt during the coup attempt?

Initial reports did not mention casualties. The government confirmed 14 arrests related to the plot. Gunfire was heard in parts of Cotonou but the situation stabilized quickly.

How did the Beninese government stop the coup?

Loyalist armed forces moved to secure key sites. They regained control of the state television broadcaster. Government ministers then addressed the nation to confirm order was restored.

Why is there instability in West Africa?

Several factors contribute to regional instability. These include jihadist violence, economic challenges, and political tensions. Military takeovers in neighboring nations have set a concerning precedent.

What happens next in Benin?

The government urges citizens to go about business as usual. The country is preparing for a presidential election scheduled for April 2026. Security will likely be heightened in the coming weeks.