BENIN
A senior Benin army officer has declared a coup after reportedly attacking the residence of President Patrice Talon and seizing the national television station.
Lt Col Pascal Tigri appeared on state television on Saturday, announcing that the military had taken over leadership of the West African nation. Flanked by armed soldiers, Tigri read a statement dismissing President Talon from office and naming himself head of a “military committee for the restructuring of the country.”
According to the broadcast, the military has suspended the November 2025 constitution, dissolved all state institutions, and halted the activities of political parties until further notice.
The announcement also indicated that Benin’s land, air, and maritime borders have been closed as the army consolidates control.
There were earlier reports of an attack on a presidential building in Cotonou, though details remain unclear and the whereabouts of President Talon are yet to be confirmed. Authorities have not issued further communication.
