Nigeria has deployed fighter aircraft to the Benin Republic following reports of a military coup attempt that briefly claimed to remove President Patrice Talon, according to security sources.
The jets, which departed Lagos on Sunday, were seen operating in Beninese airspace as Nigeria intensified aerial surveillance in response to the unfolding political tension in the neighboring country. Officials said the move is part of precautionary efforts to evaluate regional security risks and protect Nigeria’s national interests.
A senior security source told Zagazola Makama that the aircraft had already arrived in Benin, stressing that the operation is not offensive but strictly strategic.
Earlier, Lt. Pascal Tigri and a group calling itself the Military Committee for Rebuilding announced the dissolution of state institutions, suspension of the 2025 constitution, shutdown of political party activities, and closure of all borders. However, conflicting accounts emerged soon after.
Nigeria, which shares an extensive and porous border with Benin, considers any instability in Cotonou a direct security concern.
As of press time, the Nigerian government had not issued an official statement, but military sources said surveillance missions would continue until the political situation becomes clearer.
Meanwhile, the African Union condemned what it described as an attempted coup, urging soldiers involved to halt illegal actions and return to their barracks. A source close to President Talon told AFP that the president was safe.
Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, later announced that the armed forces had successfully foiled the mutiny, describing it as an attempt by a small group of soldiers to destabilize state institutions.
