Nigeria’s Benin rescue thwarts a coup, sends a warning to a volatile region

Nigeria’s Benin rescue thwarts a coup, sends a warning to a volatile region
17 hours ago

Nigeria's swift intervention in Benin has been credited with thwarting a coup attempt in the West African nation. Here's what's happening:

The Coup Attempt

- A group of soldiers, led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, attempted to seize power in Benin, briefly taking control of state television and announcing the government's dissolution.

- President Patrice Talon's residence was attacked, but he escaped and witnessed violent clashes firsthand.

Nigeria's Response

- Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu deployed fighter jets and ground troops to Benin after receiving a request for "exceptional and immediate air support" from President Talon.

- The Nigerian military's swift response helped to dislodge the coup plotters and restore order.¹ ²

International Support

- France provided intelligence and logistical support to Benin's government, helping to thwart the coup attempt.

- The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the coup and deployed troops to support Benin's army.³ ⁴

Aftermath

- The coup leader, Colonel Pascal Tigri, is reportedly hiding in neighboring Togo, with Benin's government demanding his extradition.

- President Talon has vowed to punish those behind the coup attempt, citing the need to maintain stability in the region.⁵ ⁶

Regional Implications

- The coup attempt highlights the ongoing security challenges in West Africa, where jihadist groups and military takeovers have become increasingly common.

- Nigeria's intervention in Benin demonstrates its commitment to regional stability and its role as a key player in ECOWAS.

Benin coup thwarted by loyalist troops, president tells nation
4 days ago

Benin's President Patrice Talon announced that the country's armed forces, backed by Nigerian fighter jets and French intelligence, have foiled a coup attempt. The coup plotters, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, briefly seized control of state television and declared the dissolution of the government. However, loyalist troops quickly responded and regained control.

Key Updates:

- Coup Leader's Whereabouts: The alleged leader, Colonel Pascal Tigri, is reportedly hiding in neighboring Togo, with Benin's government demanding his extradition.

- Arrests: 14 people have been arrested in connection with the coup attempt.

- Casualties: There have been reports of casualties "on both sides" during the clashes, but no official death toll has been provided.

- International Support: Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu dispatched fighter jets and ground troops to Benin after receiving a request for help from President Talon. France also provided intelligence and logistical support.

- Regional Implications: The attempted coup highlights the ongoing security challenges in West Africa, where jihadist groups and military takeovers have become increasingly common.¹ ² ³

Presidential Election: Benin is scheduled to hold a presidential election in April, which is expected to mark the end of President Talon's tenure. Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni is the candidate for the ruling coalition and is seen as the heavy favorite.

Troops and warplanes deployed in Benin after ‘failed coup attempt’
4 days ago

Nigerian troops and warplanes were deployed to Benin after a failed coup attempt on December 7, 2025. Here's what's happening¹ ² ³:

- The Coup Attempt: A group of soldiers, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, attempted to seize power in Benin, briefly taking control of state television and announcing the government's dissolution. However, the country's armed forces, backed by Nigerian firepower and French intelligence, thwarted the attempt.

- Nigeria's Response: Nigerian President Bola Tinubu deployed fighter jets and ground troops to Benin after receiving a request for "exceptional and immediate provision of air support" from President Patrice Talon. The Nigerian Senate later approved the deployment.

- Aftermath: At least 14 people were arrested in connection with the coup attempt, and four members of Benin's military sought refuge in Togo. The alleged coup leader, Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, is reportedly hiding in Togo, with Benin's government demanding his extradition.

- Regional Response: The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the coup attempt and deployed troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast to support Benin's government. France also provided intelligence and logistical support to help thwart the coup.

- Benin's Stability: Benin has been regarded as one of Africa's more stable democracies, but the country has faced jihadist violence in the north. President Patrice Talon is set to leave office in April after completing his second term, with Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni considered the heavy favorite to succeed him.

Africa, not battlefield for Europe’s ambitions

A powerful statement. Africa is indeed a continent with its own agency, rich in resources, culture, and history. It's essential for African nations to prioritize their own interests and development, rather than being treated as a mere battleground for external powers' ambitions.

Key Points to Consider:

- African Agency: Africans must take charge of their own destiny, making decisions that benefit their people and economies.

- Resource Management: Africa's vast natural resources should be harnessed for the benefit of its citizens, not just external powers.

- Economic Development: Investing in infrastructure, education, and economic diversification can help African nations reduce dependence on external aid and drive growth.

- Regional Cooperation: Organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS can play a crucial role in promoting regional stability, trade, and cooperation.

The Way Forward:

- Empowering African Institutions: Strengthening local institutions and decision-making processes can help Africa assert its interests and reduce external influence.

- Promoting Pan-Africanism: Fostering a sense of shared identity and solidarity among African nations can help drive collective progress and development.

- Encouraging Sustainable Development: Prioritizing sustainable development, climate resilience, and social justice can help Africa build a more prosperous and equitable future.

By working together, Africans can shape their own future and determine the course of their development, free from external interference.