ECOWAS Condemns Attempted Military Coup In Benin Republic

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned an attempted military coup in the Republic of Benin.

ECOWAS said it is deeply concerned by the development and expects the country’s constitution to be upheld.

On Sunday, a group of soldiers in Benin announced on national television that they had removed President Patrice Talon from power.

However, people close to the president said he was unharmed and that loyal forces were pushing back and restoring order.

In a statement released in Abuja today, ECOWAS said it was troubled by the news and praised both the Beninese Government and the Republican Army for moving quickly to calm the situation.

‘ECOWAS holds the leaders of the plot both individually and collectively responsible for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action.

“ECOWAS will support the Government and the people in all forms necessary to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin,” the statement added.

The soldiers, calling themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation(CMR),” claimed they had agreed to remove Talon from office.

Their declaration comes shortly after coups in Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Benin’s northern neighbours, Niger and Burkina Faso, have also experienced military takeovers in recent years.

The French Embassy reported on X that gunfire was heard at Camp Guezo, which is close to the president’s residence in the economic capital, and advised French nationals to remain indoors until the situation stabilises.

Despite the tension, Talon’s team insisted he was safe, describing the incident as the actions of a small faction with access to state television.

They noted that loyal troops were taking back control and that both the city and the country remained secure.

Talon has led Benin for a decade and is expected to leave office in April.

Benin has experienced a number of coups and attempted coups throughout its political history.

KanyiDaily had also reported how two Nigerian military officers went into hiding after being accused of taking part in a failed plan to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.