Cotonou: Benin’s government said on Sunday that it has regained control after a group of soldiers briefly appeared on national television claiming they had seized power and suspended state institutions.
Earlier in the day at least eight soldiers wearing military uniforms took over the state broadcaster and announced the creation of a body they called the Military Committee for Refoundation. The group said it had closed borders and dissolved the constitution. They argued that the action was necessary because the country was facing growing insecurity and that the government was neglecting soldiers who died in recent fighting in the northern region.
Government officials later confirmed that loyal forces were able to secure key state facilities and remove the group from the television station. Reports from military sources say several soldiers involved in the attempt have been arrested. Authorities have not yet confirmed how many were part of the operation.
The takeover and gunfire near the capital created confusion among residents as the situation unfolded. By evening the government asked the public to remain calm and return to normal activities.
Benin has been viewed as one of West Africa’s more stable countries but it has recently faced increasing militant attacks near its northern border. The attempted coup also comes ahead of a presidential election scheduled in April 2026 following a recent constitutional change that extended presidential terms.
Regional leaders and international observers are watching the situation closely as West Africa has seen a rise in military takeovers in recent years.
Officials in Cotonou said the situation is now under control and that the country’s institutions remain intact. They also stated that investigations are under way to determine whether the coup attempt had wider support within the military.
No casualties have been reported so far.