A group of soldiers in Benin said on Sunday that they had seized power, declaring that President Patrice Talon was no longer in office. Government sources, however, insisted that the president remained safe and that loyal forces were restoring order.

Soldiers announce takeover on state television

The statement, delivered on national television by individuals identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation, alleged that they had decided to remove Talon from power. They announced that their actions were in the interest of reshaping the country’s leadership.

The coup claim heightened concerns in a region that has witnessed a string of military interventions in recent years. According to regional reports, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar have experienced similar turmoil within the past two months. To the north, Niger and Burkina Faso are also under military leadership following their own takeovers.

Foreign governments urge caution

The French Embassy confirmed on X that there were gunshots near Camp Guezo, a military installation close to Talon’s residence in Cotonou, Benin’s economic hub. The embassy advised French nationals to stay indoors until further notice for their safety.

Presidency says order returning

Talon’s office quickly countered the narrative circulating on state television. Speaking to AFP, officials described those behind the broadcast as “a small group” with limited influence.

“They only managed to take control of the television. The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure,” a spokesperson said, adding that President Talon was unharmed.

Talon, 67, has led Benin since 2016 and is expected to hand over power when his second term expires in 2026. Though widely credited for expanding the country’s economy, the former businessman known as the “cotton king” of Cotonou has faced criticism from international observers and local opposition figures who accuse him of tightening his grip on political institutions.

Political tensions ahead of transition

Analysts note that Benin’s history includes multiple coups and attempted coups, though the country had long been considered one of West Africa’s more stable democracies. The next presidential election is already drawing scrutiny, as the main opposition party has been barred from contesting, leaving only the ruling bloc and a more moderate opposition in the race.

As security forces move to restore calm in Cotonou, the situation remains fluid. Regional leaders have yet to publicly react, but security experts warn that political unrest in Benin adds to a growing crisis of democratic backsliding in the Sahel and across West Africa.