Benin was thrown into uncertainty on Sunday, December 7, after a group of soldiers appeared on national television claiming to speak for a so-called “Military Committee for Refoundation.” The group announced that President Patrice Talon had been removed from office, despite his mandate running until April 2026.

The Presidency swiftly dismissed the declaration and confirmed that the attempted takeover had been thwarted. Officials assured the public that the situation had been contained and that state institutions remained fully operational.

In an evening address, President Talon personally reassured citizens that there was no cause for concern. He emphasized that calm had been restored nationwide and urged the population to remain vigilant but confident in the country’s stability.

The development comes as ECOWAS readies its standby force in response to the attempted coup. The regional bloc has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding constitutional order amid heightened tensions across West Africa.