On December 7, 2025, the West African nation of Benin faced a significant military coup d'état attempt. Soldiers from Benin's armed forces, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, attempted to overthrow the incumbent President, Patrice Talon. The coup attempt, though dramatic, was promptly thwarted by loyalist troops, ensuring that the situation was brought under control.
At the heart of the attempted coup was an attack on Talon's residence in Cotonou, the administrative capital of Benin. The plot was announced on national television, with soldiers declaring the dissolution of the government and the removal of President Talon from office. The announcement alarmed the nation, but the situation saw a swift reaction from the government, which moved to reassure the public.
President Talon, in his first public remarks since the incident, condemned the coup attempt. He appeared on television to reassure citizens that the situation was "totally under control" and praised the loyalist troops for their swift action in thwarting the rebellion. The interior minister of Benin, Alassane Seidou, also confirmed that the coup had been foiled, attributing the success to the timely intervention of the military.
According to reports, the coup was planned and executed by a small group of soldiers who attempted to seize power during the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025. The action was condemned by various international missions, including the American and French embassies, which reported gunshots near President Talon's residence. Despite the initial disruption, the regular army quickly regained control, ensuring the safety of the president and his family.
The failed coup attempt has brought attention to the political stability of Benin, a country known for its democratic progress and economic growth. President Talon, who has been in office since 2016, has been a prominent figure in the region, known for his efforts to modernize the country and improve its infrastructure. The coup attempt, while a significant event, underscores the resilience of the country's institutions and the loyalty of its military forces.
As Benin recovers from this ordeal, the focus remains on maintaining peace and stability. The government's swift response to the coup attempt highlights its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the interests of its citizens. While the immediate threat has been neutralized, the long-term implications of the coup attempt will continue to be monitored closely by both domestic and international observers.
