Coup Rocks Benin Republic as Soldiers Attack President Talon’s Residence, Seize State TV

Cotonou, Sunday — Tension engulfed Benin Republic in the early hours of Sunday as heavily armed soldiers launched what appears to be a coordinated coup attempt targeting President Patrice Talon and key state institutions.

According to credible security and diplomatic sources, gunfire erupted around President Talon’s private residence in the Le Guézo district of Cotonou at dawn, forcing residents in nearby streets to flee or take shelter indoors. Troops believed to be part of an elite military unit reportedly stormed the premises in an attempt to arrest the president. His whereabouts remained unknown at press time.

Shortly after the attack, a group of uniformed soldiers took over the national broadcaster, Office de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (ORTB). Interrupting regular programming, the soldiers announced the dissolution of the government and declared that President Talon had been removed from power. They introduced themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation”, claiming their intervention was necessary to “restore order” and “protect the nation.”

The broadcast was brief, and no independent verification of the president’s status has yet been possible.

Capital on Edge

Cotonou has been thrown into confusion as military vehicles, armed checkpoints, and troops have been deployed at strategic locations. Businesses remained shut, and movement in parts of the capital was severely restricted. Residents reported hearing sporadic gunfire as loyalist forces were believed to be regrouping.

Diplomatic missions in the city issued emergency advisories, urging their nationals to stay indoors pending clarity on the situation.

Uncertain Political Future

Benin, long regarded as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies, has faced rising tensions in recent years. Analysts say Sunday’s events — if confirmed as a full-scale coup — mark the most serious challenge to Talon’s rule since he assumed office.

The attempted putsch comes months after the government announced it had foiled a previous plot involving senior political figures and members of the security establishment.

Regional Leaders Monitoring Situation

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has struggled to manage a wave of coups across Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Niger, is expected to respond urgently. Diplomatic sources suggest that a high-level emergency meeting may be convened to assess the situation and consider possible sanctions or intervention.

Next Hours Critical

As the sun set over Cotonou on Sunday, uncertainty deepened. The military faction has yet to present President Talon to the public, fueling speculation about whether he is in hiding, in custody, or attempting to regain control.

For now, Benin stands on the edge of a political precipice, with the coming hours likely to determine whether the coup succeeds or sparks a broader confrontation between rival forces.

STATEMENT BY CONCERNED DEFENDERS OF NATIONAL CONSCIOUSNESS AND INTEGRITY

A Call to Defend National Security and Condemn the Reckless Exposure of State Secrets

*TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONGRATULATES GENERAL MUSA AS NEW MINISTER OF DEFENCE, APPLAUDS PRESIDENT TINUBU ON HIS JUDICIOUS SELECTION*

In a letter of congratulations issued by the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, the recently appointed Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has received significant recognition and support from the esteemed foundation. Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, the Chairman of the foundation, conveyed the organization’s warmest congratulations on General Musa’s appointment, conferred by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and confirmed by the Senate.

Describing the new appointment as a notable affirmation of General Musa’s “distinguished service to the nation,” the letter highlighted his exemplary record of service and leadership in the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasizing his gallantry, unwavering dedication, and strategic insight. The foundation expressed confidence that General Musa’s vast experience will play a vital role in enhancing Nigeria’s defence architecture amid ongoing security challenges.

Ambassador Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, CFR (Rtd), the Grand Patron of the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation and former Chief of Army Staff, also commended President Tinubu for his discerning choice. The letter acknowledged that quick confirmation by the Senate reflects a collective commitment to national security and prosperity.

In his remarks, Ambassador Buratai voiced optimism that under General Musa’s stewardship, the Ministry of Defence will confront existing security threats, thereby fostering renewed hope and stability in the nation.

The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation extended prayers for General Musa’s wisdom and strength, wishing him a successful tenure marked by significant achievements that would elevate Nigeria’s security and overall welfare.

As Nigeria faces multifaceted security challenges, the appointment of a seasoned military leader at the helm of the Defence Ministry has raised hope for enhanced security measures and strategic progress in the country.

The foundations of leadership and unity at this critical juncture are essential, as echoed by the collective support for General Musa’s mission by various stakeholders dedicated to Nigeria’s peace and stability.