Soldiers Announce Removal of President Patrice Talon in Apparent Coup in Benin Republic

Benin Republic has been thrown into uncertainty as a group of soldiers appeared on national television on Saturday, declaring that they had removed President Patrice Talon from power. The development follows hours of gunfire reportedly heard around the presidential residence in Cotonou, with eyewitnesses describing heavy military presence in key installations across the city.

According to regional media sources, the soldiers—identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR)—claimed responsibility for seizing control of the national broadcaster, suspending the country’s constitution, and closing all land, air, and sea borders. The announcement marks one of the most dramatic political disruptions in the country’s modern history, given Benin’s longstanding reputation as one of West Africa’s stable democracies.

Early reports indicate that the president’s residence was attacked at dawn, triggering confusion across the capital. Although the military faction claims success, conflicting accounts suggest that loyalist forces remain active and may be attempting to restore order, leaving the true control of the government still unclear.

International observers are watching closely as uncertainty grips the region. ECOWAS and the African Union are expected to issue statements on the political crisis, given their strong stance against unconstitutional changes of government.

As the situation continued to unfold , citizens have been advised to to remained calm and avoid major government installations.Nsemgh will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates