Cotonou, Benin — ECOWAS Troops Deployed as Benin Foils Coup Attempt. Benin’s government has successfully thwarted a coup attempt, deploying some 200 West African soldiers, primarily from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, to support the nation’s forces.
The operation, which took place on Sunday, was a swift response to the mutiny, with fighter jets from Abuja being deployed to repel the rebels from a military base and the state TV headquarters.
According to local reports, the coup was foiled after regional forces, coordinated by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), intervened. Benin’s foreign minister has stated that some of these regional troops are still in the country to assist with a “sweep and clean-up operation.”
In the aftermath of the attempted coup, a manhunt is underway for those believed to be involved in the plot.
Pascal Tigri, the leader of the failed coup, is reported to have sought refuge in neighboring Togo.
The Beninese national intelligence service has requested assistance from its Togolese counterpart in apprehending the fugitive soldiers. This incident has led to the arrest of Candide Azannaï, the former deputy defense minister and opposition party leader, who was accused of conspiracy against the state.
The government has also announced investigations into the attempted coup, with an international arrest warrant issued for Kémi Séba, an anti-Western influencer known for his support of Sahelian military juntas close to Russia. Several West African countries have experienced military coups in recent years, including Benin’s northern neighbors, Niger and Burkina Faso.
The swift response by the Beninese government and regional forces has been seen as a crucial step in maintaining stability in the region.
The situation remains fluid, with further details expected as investigations continue.
The government has emphasized its commitment to upholding democracy and stability within the country and the region.
