On December 7, 2025, Benin experienced a brief but dramatic attempted military coup in its capital, Cotonou, which was swiftly foiled by loyalist forces.
The incident, described by officials as a “mutiny” by a small group of dissident soldiers, highlights ongoing regional instability in West Africa amid a wave of military takeovers in neighboring countries.Key Details of the Incident
Early Sunday morning (local time), at least eight soldiers, some wearing helmets, seized control of state television (BTV) and announced the formation of the “Military Committee for Refoundation” (CMR). Led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, who declared himself head of the committee, they proclaimed the dissolution of all national institutions, suspension of the constitution, closure of borders (air, land, and sea), and an end to political party activities. The rebels cited grievances over President Patrice Talon’s governance, promising “fraternity, justice, and work” for the people.
Government Response
Within hours, Benin’s armed forces regained control of key sites, including the TV station, presidential palace, and roadblocks around strategic areas like a five-star hotel and international districts. No military presence was reported at the airport, and much of the city continued normal operations.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou addressed the nation via a Facebook video and state media, stating: “A small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilizing the country and its institutions… The Beninese Armed Forces maintained control and foiled the attempt.” President Talon, 67, was confirmed safe by his office, with no reported casualties or arrests detailed yet.
Residents in Cotonou largely carried on with daily routines, though gunfire was heard near Camp Guezo (close to the presidential residence). Social media buzzed with speculation, including videos of armored units near the palace and celebrations by some crowds initially supporting the plotters—though these were quickly overshadowed by reports of the failure.
Pro-Russian influencers online hailed the attempt, amid Benin’s rising jihadist threats from groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda. Embassies issued advisories: France urged citizens to stay indoors, the U.S. advised avoiding Cotonou’s presidential area, and Russia’s embassy echoed safety calls.
Benin, a stable democracy since transitioning from Marxist rule in the 1990s, has avoided successful coups since independence from France in 1960—until this aborted bid. It comes just weeks after a coup in Guinea-Bissau (November 2025) and amid takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea since 2020. Talon, a former cotton magnate in power since 2016, faces criticism for jailing opponents and amid economic growth overshadowed by poverty and insecurity.
The attempt occurred ahead of April 2026 elections, where Talon is term-limited.The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) pledged support for Benin’s constitutional order and territorial integrity. Neighboring Nigeria reportedly deployed fighter jets to its border as a precaution.
| Recent West African Coups/Attempts | Date | Outcome | Leader Targeted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mali | Aug 2020 & May 2021 | Successful | Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta / Transitional govt |
| Guinea | Sep 2021 | Successful | Alpha Condé |
| Burkina Faso | Jan & Sep 2022 | Successful | Roch Marc Christian Kaboré / Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba (later ousted) |
| Niger | Jul 2023 | Successful | Mohamed Bazoum |
| Guinea-Bissau | Nov 2025 | Successful | Umaro Sissoco Embaló |
| Benin | Dec 2025 | Foiled | Patrice Talon |
This rapid resolution underscores the loyalty of most of Benin’s military but raises alarms about democratic erosion in the Sahel region, where external influences have fueled unrest. As of now, the government urges calm, with investigations underway.
