What You Need to Know
The Beninese government has reported that Colonel Pascal Tigri, accused of leading a failed coup attempt last Sunday, has fled to neighboring Togo. Official sources indicate that four members of the Beninese army also escaped to Lomé, raising suspicions of Togo’s involvement. The government has arrested 14 individuals in connection with the coup attempt.
Africa. The Beninese government has stated that Colonel Pascal Tigri, accused of leading a failed coup attempt last Sunday, has fled to neighboring Togo, demanding his immediate extradition.
Official sources have indicated that four members of the Beninese army also escaped to Lomé, and that Tigri received a call from a Togolese number on the day of the coup attempt, which authorities consider evidence of possible Togolese involvement in the events. No comment has been issued by the Togolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs thus far.
Soldiers had taken control of the state television for hours and announced the ousting of President Patrice Talon before the Beninese armed forces, supported by Nigerian and French troops, intervened to thwart the coup.
The government confirmed that the coup plotters attempted to storm the president’s residence and kidnap him, and they held senior officers who were later released.
Authorities announced the arrest of 14 individuals in connection with the coup attempt, while Talon vowed to hold those responsible accountable, stating that “this betrayal will not go unpunished.”
The government has not disclosed the casualty figures but indicated that there were deaths and injuries on both sides during the clashes in Cotonou, the country’s economic capital.
These developments come just months before the presidential elections scheduled for April, which are expected to conclude Talon’s term, with predictions favoring his finance minister, Romuald Wadagni, as the ruling coalition’s candidate.
In recent years, Benin has faced political instability, particularly surrounding elections and governance issues. The country, once hailed as a model of democracy in West Africa, has seen increasing tensions between the government and opposition groups, leading to fears of unrest. The upcoming presidential elections in April are critical, as they may determine the future political landscape and stability of the nation.
The failed coup attempt reflects deeper issues within the military and political spheres in Benin. With President Patrice Talon in power since 2016, his administration has been criticized for its handling of dissent and political opposition.
