Tension briefly gripped Benin on Sunday after a sudden announcement by a group of soldiers claiming they had taken power from President Patrice Talon.
What followed was a fast-moving series of events as government officials rushed to clarify the situation and reassure the public that the state remained stable.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later appeared on national television to explain that security forces had acted quickly to stop what he described as an attempted mutiny.
He said the incident began early on Sunday morning, 7 December 2025, when a small group of soldiers tried to destabilise state institutions.
According to him, the Beninese armed forces stayed loyal to their oath and moved swiftly to prevent the plot from succeeding.
He added that the government wanted citizens to continue with their daily activities without fear.
The minister’s remarks came after a dramatic broadcast in which rebel soldiers briefly seized control of the airwaves.
Led by Lt-Col Pascal Tigri, the group introduced themselves as the Military Committee for the Refoundation, or CMR. In their short statement, they claimed to have removed President Talon from office and suspended the constitution.
Their message caused confusion across the country as people tried to understand what was unfolding.
Local reports later indicated gunfire had been heard at Camp Guezo, not far from the presidential residence. Some outlets also suggested that the renegade soldiers had taken control of the state broadcaster before security forces moved in.
Despite these tense moments, officials from the Presidency confirmed that the president was safe and that loyal forces had restored order shortly after the mutiny began.
Speaking separately to Jeune Afrique, Minister of State for Economy and Finance Romuald Wadagni said the government had regained full control.
He described the situation as “under control” and explained that security forces were still clearing certain areas to ensure no remaining threats were present. He also noted that helicopters had been deployed over Cotonou and that central parts of the city were being heavily guarded to prevent further unrest.
Authorities have since called for calm, urging citizens not to panic as operations continue to stabilise the capital.
The government maintains that the failed mutiny has been contained and that the country’s institutions remain intact.
For many Beninese, Sunday’s events were a reminder of the importance of stable and loyal security forces, especially in a region where coups have become increasingly common.
