The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned what it described as an attempted military takeover in Benin Republic.
Tension erupted on Sunday after gunfire and confusion were reported in parts of Cotonou, following an announcement by soldiers claiming to have removed President Patrice Talon from office.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday December 7, 2025, when group identifying itself as the “Military Committee for Refoundation” appeared on the state television to declare Talon ousted.
ECOWAS in a statement issued in Abuja-Nigeria on Sunday rejected the declaration, insisting on full respect for Benin’s constitution while commending loyalist forces working to restore calm.
The regional bloc warned that coup plotters would be held accountable for any loss of life or property, stressing that it is ready to support Benin “In forms necessary”, including deploying the sub regional standby force. Talon’s office maintained that the President remains safe and that the regular army has regained control of the situation.
