A group of military officers has seized power in Benin Republic, announcing the dissolution of the government and removal of President Patrice Talon and all political office holders on state TV.
The Military Committee for Refoundation, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, claimed to be taking control to “restore order” in the West African nation.
Talon, who has been in office since 2016, was expected to step down in April 2026 after serving two terms.
His whereabouts are currently unknown, with reports of gunfire near his official residence.
The French Embassy has advised French nationals to stay indoors due to security concerns.
This coup marks the latest in a series of military takeovers in West Africa, following similar incidents in Guinea-Bissau, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is expected to respond urgently to the situation.
Persecondnews recalls that in September 2024, Benin Republic foiled an attempted coup, arresting the commander of the republican guard and head of Talon’s security, Djimon Tevoedjre, along with other suspects.
The current situation remains volatile, with troops deployed at strategic locations and communications restricted.
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