Benin Soldiers Declare Apparent Military Coup on State TV

Benin was thrust into political uncertainty after a group of soldiers appeared on state television to announce what they described as a military takeover, declaring the government dissolved and asserting that the armed forces had assumed control. The unexpected announcement has sparked confusion, international concern, and growing tension across the West African nation.

The soldiers—dressed in full military uniform and armed—delivered the statement during a broadcast on Benin’s national TV station. In their declaration, they accused the civilian government of “mismanagement,” “endangering national stability,” and failing to address widespread dissatisfaction among citizens. They claimed the intervention was necessary to “protect the nation and restore proper governance,” though no specific incidents or evidence were presented to support their allegations.

Government officials have not yet issued a formal response, and President Patrice Talon’s whereabouts remain unconfirmed. Sources within the administration say the government is treating the announcement as an attempted coup, but communication lines have been strained, and several ministries are reportedly under military watch. While there is no immediate indication of violence in major urban centers, reports suggest that soldiers have been deployed to key infrastructure sites, including airports, government buildings, and communication hubs.

Eyewitnesses in Cotonou, the nation’s largest city, described a mixture of uncertainty and calm. Businesses closed early as residents rushed home, fearing potential clashes or unrest. Police presence has diminished in some areas, while military patrols appear to be increasing. Social media platforms have been flooded with videos and messages from residents urging caution and seeking clarity on the rapidly evolving situation.

International reaction was swift. The African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations expressed deep concern, calling for restraint and the immediate restoration of constitutional order. ECOWAS, which has faced a wave of coups across West Africa in recent years, warned that it would not tolerate “any unconstitutional seizure of power” and urged Benin’s military to stand down. Analysts say the region, already destabilized by recent coups in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, is closely watching developments in Benin, which had long been viewed as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies.

Political experts note that although Benin has experienced political tensions in recent years—including disputed elections, tighter restrictions on opposition groups, and concerns about democratic backsliding—it has not endured a successful coup in decades. The sudden military announcement therefore marks a dramatic escalation and raises questions about underlying fractures within the armed forces.

As uncertainty grows, citizens have been advised to remain indoors and avoid large gatherings until authorities clarify the situation. Several embassies issued security alerts instructing foreign nationals to limit movement and stay updated on developments.

It remains unclear whether the coup attempt has broad military support or whether loyalist forces are preparing a response. The coming hours and days will be critical in determining whether the soldiers’ announcement represents a temporary disruption or a deeper shift in Benin’s political landscape.

For now, the nation waits anxiously as the situation unfolds, with hopes that diplomacy and restraint will prevail over instability and conflict.

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