Benin Republic has intensified a nationwide manhunt for fugitive soldiers involved in Sunday’s failed coup attempt, as regional powers — including Nigeria — mobilised military support to protect constitutional order. Calm returned to Cotonou by Monday after hostages, including top officers Chief of Army Staff Abou Issa and Colonel Faizou Gomina, were released unharmed.
President Patrice Talon assured citizens that the situation is under full control and vowed severe punishment for the perpetrators. Security sources say alleged coup leader Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri is still on the run, with about a dozen soldiers already arrested.
Nigeria confirmed it deployed military strikes and troops at Benin’s request, while ECOWAS announced additional forces from Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone. The AU, UN, and France jointly condemned the attempted takeover, which comes just months before Talon is expected to leave office in April 2026.
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