Cotonou, Benin — 2025-12-08 Attempted Coup in Benin Repelled by Nigerian Military Intervention.
A failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin was thwarted on Sunday morning, with the swift intervention of Nigerian forces playing a critical role in restoring constitutional order.
According to local reports, loyalist soldiers under Colonel Pascal Tigri seized control of the national television in Cotonou, announcing the overthrow of President Patrice Talon and the suspension of democratic institutions.
The Nigerian government, under President Bola Tinubu, responded swiftly to requests for assistance from the Beninese authorities. Officials commented on the matter. Regional officials confirmed that two official requests were made by Benin to Nigeria within a few hours of the coup attempt.
The first sought urgent aerial support to secure the country’s airspace and assist in dislodging the rebels who had taken over the national television station and a military camp.
The second request called for continued aerial surveillance and rapid intervention missions, as well as the deployment of ground troops under Beninese command. Responding to the requests, President Tinubu authorized the dispatch of Nigerian Air Force fighter jets.
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, confirmed that Nigerian troops had entered Beninese territory by Sunday afternoon.
The combined efforts of the Nigerian and Beninese forces successfully reclaimed strategic sites, including the national television station, within hours.
The restoration of order in the capital city was hailed as a victory for stability and democracy in West Africa.
President Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Benin in defending democratic institutions, in line with the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. At the time of reporting, the Beninese authorities had not yet disclosed the number of mutineers involved or the precise motivations behind the coup attempt.
An investigation has been initiated, and several military personnel have been detained.
Further details are expected as the situation unfolds. Sources close to the matter said the intervention was a testament to the strength of regional cooperation in maintaining peace and stability.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
