Benin's government and military successfully neutralized an attempted coup on Sunday, December 7, President Patrice Talon confirmed in a televised address. The swift response by loyalist forces prevented armed mutineers from seizing key positions in Cotonou, the nation's economic hub.
Gunfire erupted early Sunday as rebel soldiers temporarily occupied state television and a military camp before being dislodged. Talon praised security forces for maintaining control, stating: "This treachery will not go unpunished." At least 14 suspects have been arrested, according to government spokesperson Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji.
Regional allies moved quickly to stabilize the situation, with Nigeria deploying fighter jets and ground troops at Benin's request. ECOWAS activated its standby force, mobilizing troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Ghana to reinforce security.
The incident marks Benin's first major political crisis since 1972, challenging its reputation as one of West Africa's most stable democracies. It follows a pattern of military takeovers in neighboring nations, including Niger, Burkina Faso, and Guinea-Bissau's attempted coup last month.
President Talon, first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, emphasized national unity while acknowledging casualties and hostages taken during the unrest. International observers await further details as investigations continue.
