Overview
- Uniformed troops identifying as the Military Committee for Refoundation appeared on state TV to announce the ouster of President Patrice Talon, suspend the constitution, dissolve institutions, and name Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri as their leader.
- Interior Minister Alassane Seidou declared the attempt foiled, and later President Talon addressed the nation saying the situation was completely under control.
- Signals to state television and public radio that were cut during the takeover were restored as loyalist forces secured key sites and detained suspects, while some participants reportedly fled.
- Gunfire was reported in parts of Cotonou, including near Camp Guezo by the presidential residence, and French and U.S. embassies issued safety advisories to their nationals.
- ECOWAS condemned the move as unconstitutional and pledged support to Benin’s government, as the episode unfolded ahead of an April presidential election and against a backdrop of northern security pressures.