Nigeria Recalls Fighter Jets as Calm Returns to Benin Republic After Failed Coup

Nigeria has withdrawn the fighter jets it deployed to Benin Republic after authorities confirmed that Sunday’s attempted coup had been suppressed and order restored.

The aircraft, dispatched from Lagos for aerial monitoring, were recalled following intelligence indicating that loyalist forces had reestablished control in Cotonou and that Nigeria faced no imminent threat. Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported on social media that the bid to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s government was quickly defeated.

The incident began when mutineers attacked the presidential residence early Sunday. After being repelled, they seized the national broadcaster, ORTB, in an attempt to control state media.

Benin’s security forces reacted swiftly, with National Guard units surrounding the broadcasting headquarters and blocking escape routes to isolate the rebels.

A senior security official stated, “The situation is under control. The National Guard has everything surrounded.”

Local outlets reported that some mutineers remained barricaded inside the TV station on Sunday evening, with negotiations ongoing for their surrender.

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed the coup attempt had been foiled after soldiers briefly appeared on state television announcing Talon’s removal, border closures, and the suspension of political activities.

The presidency assured the public that President Talon was safe and that the regular army was reasserting order. The plotters, who identified as the Military Committee for Refoundation and were reportedly led by Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, had declared him head of a new military authority during their short-lived broadcast.

The incident highlights the persistent instability in West Africa, where military takeovers have become increasingly frequent, raising alarms over the region’s democratic prospects.