Reports emerging from Benin Republic indicate that an alleged attempted coup is currently unfolding in the capital city, Cotonou, following an early-morning military assault on the official residence of President Patrice Talon on Sunday, December 7, 2025.
According to information shared by Beninese media platform TchadOne, armed soldiers stormed the president’s residence located in the Le Guézo district in what is believed to be a coordinated operation aimed at seizing control of the government.
The report further claims that the operation is being led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, who later appeared on the national television station, which is said to have been taken over by the military during the operation.
During the broadcast, the senior officer reportedly declared himself the “chairman of the military re-establishment committee,” a statement that has fueled fears of a full-scale military takeover.
Eyewitnesses in Cotonou say there is a heavy deployment of armed troops across key strategic locations, including major highways, government buildings, and security checkpoints, contributing to growing tension and uncertainty in the city.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation or public address from President Patrice Talon, the presidency, or other senior government officials regarding the alleged attack or the state of governance in the country.
Citizens have been urged to remain calm as conflicting reports continue to circulate, while residents reportedly stay indoors amid fears of escalating violence.
The situation in Benin has raised broader concerns about political instability in West Africa, a region that has experienced a wave of military coups and attempted takeovers in recent years, including in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea.
TchadOne noted that developments remain fluid and assured that updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
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Soldiers announce military takeover of govt in Benin Republic this morning 🙆🏼♂️pic.twitter.com/fHSwMhLyF3
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) December 7, 2025