Benin Coup Attempt: Why Rebel Soldiers Failed and How ECOWAS Responded Immediately

Benin faced a major security shock when rebel soldiers tried to overthrow President Patrice Talon. However, unlike recent coups in West Africa, this attempt collapsed quickly. Strong public rejection, fast military response, and ECOWAS’ decisive action all played major roles.

The failed coup came only days after soldiers in Guinea-Bissau seized power. With West Africa experiencing eight successful coups in five years, regional leaders saw Benin’s case as a dangerous turning point.

ECOWAS Moves Quickly After Early Attacks

Rebel soldiers launched early morning attacks on President Talon’s residence and key government buildings. Loyal forces regained control of Cotonou soon after, securing central areas of the city. But a group of mutineers continued resisting arrest.

Nigeria, the region’s strongest military power, responded immediately. President Bola Tinubu authorized Nigerian Air Force strikes on rebel positions near Cotonou’s airport and national broadcasting station.
Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast also approved ground troops to defend Benin’s constitutional order.

This fast reaction was a major shift from the slow ECOWAS response seen during Niger’s 2023 coup.

Benin’s Public Rejects the Coup Attempt

Although many citizens criticize Talon’s government—especially for barring the main opposition from upcoming elections—there was no public support for the mutineers.

Benin has a long tradition of peaceful political activism. Citizens prefer elections, protests, or civil action instead of military rule. For this reason, the coup plotters misread the national mood.

Their short appearance on national television provided no real justification that could win the public. Instead, outrage grew after a civilian woman, the wife of a top military adviser, was killed during the attack.

Lessons From Past Coups in the Region

Recent coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea happened under very different conditions:

Mali and Burkina Faso: Military frustration over fighting jihadists with poor government support.

Niger: Anger at corruption investigations and ties to France.

Guinea: Public anger after Alpha Condé forced through a third term.

Gabon: A disputed election triggered the military takeover.

Benin did not face the same level of public desperation or military collapse.
President Talon still holds strong control, military loyalty, and international support.

Regional Security Pressure Continues

The Sahel remains under intense jihadist pressure, spilling into coastal countries. Although Benin faces growing insecurity in its northern regions, it has not reached the levels seen in Mali or Burkina Faso.

Still, young people across West Africa struggle with unemployment and weak political systems. Analysts warn that without reforms, more coup attempts could emerge in the region.

Hunt for Coup Leaders Continues

Two senior military officials kidnapped by rebels have been rescued. But the coup leader, Lt Col Pascal Tigri, and others remain on the run. Security forces across Benin continue searching for the remaining fugitives.

Read also: BREAKING: Burkina Faso Arrests 11 Nigerian Soldiers, Seizes Air Force Aircraft

About The Author