Benin’s government has officially confirmed the presence of approximately 200 West African soldiers within its borders following Sunday’s thwarted coup attempt. Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari disclosed that these regional forces, primarily from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, remain engaged in “sweep and clean-up operations” to stabilize the nation.
The failed takeover unfolded when mutineers seized a military base and state television headquarters before Nigerian fighter jets intervened decisively. This military support, coordinated through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), enabled Beninese forces to repel the insurgents with surgical precision to minimize civilian casualties.
Minister Bakari, speaking alongside Nigerian counterpart Yusuf Maitama Tuggar in Abuja, emphasized that the coup had “already failed” before international assistance was formally requested. The collaborative response demonstrated unprecedented diplomatic and military coordination between neighboring nations.
Security operations continue as the alleged coup leader remains at large, reportedly seeking refuge in neighboring Togo. The rebels had justified their actions by criticizing President Patrice Talon’s management of security challenges in northern Benin, where jihadist insurgencies from Niger and Burkina Faso have increasingly threatened stability.
ECOWAS, facing regional pressure after multiple successful coups in West Africa, has signaled strengthened commitment to protecting democratic governance. The bloc deployed troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast to secure critical infrastructure and prevent violence resurgence.
Discussions regarding the duration of regional forces’ presence remain ongoing, with Bakari noting any decisions will prioritize coordination with Beninese defense forces who demonstrated considerable bravery during the crisis. The potential continued involvement of French special forces, who reportedly assisted loyalist troops, remains unconfirmed.
President Talon, a Western ally completing his second term, is scheduled to leave office next year with elections anticipated in April.