The bustling Dantokpa market in Cotonou has regained its vibrant rhythm, with vendors calling out to customers and motorbikes navigating crowded alleys just days after a brief coup attempt disrupted the West African nation.
Traders like Abel Ayihuonsou expressed relief as business resumed. “Everything is calm now, and we’re grateful,” he said, reflecting a broader sentiment among residents eager to move past the unrest.
The quick restoration of order highlights Benin’s stability, but the incident underscores persistent vulnerabilities in a region plagued by military takeovers.
The failed putsch
The attempt began early Dec. 7 when soldiers led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri stormed the state television station in Cotonou and announced they had ousted President Patrice Talon, citing governance issues and security concerns.
Loyalist forces, aided by regional allies, swiftly countered the rebellion. Nigeria deployed fighter jets for airstrikes on mutineer positions and took control of Benin’s airspace, while ground troops assisted. France provided intelligence and logistical support, and Ivory Coast contributed personnel.
By midday, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou declared the coup foiled. That evening, Talon appeared on television, stating the situation was under control and vowing punishment for the plotters. “This treachery will not go unpunished,” he said.
Casualties occurred on both sides, including deaths, though exact figures were not released. Two senior military officials kidnapped during the clashes were freed the next day.
At least 14 people were arrested, mostly soldiers. Tigri, the alleged ringleader, fled and reportedly sought refuge in neighboring Togo. Benin has demanded his extradition, and a manhunt continues.
Beninese journalist Moise Dosumou called Nigeria’s response crucial, saying a regional power like Nigeria could not risk instability on its border spilling over.
The intervention drew praise from the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), but some in Nigeria questioned prioritizing foreign action amid domestic security challenges.
About 200 regional troops, mainly from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, remain in Benin for security operations. Government spokesman Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji said any foreign links uncovered in the investigation would prompt international condemnation.
A region in flux
The Benin attempt comes amid turmoil in West Africa, with successful coups in recent years in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, Chad and, last month, Guinea-Bissau.
ECOWAS suspended Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger after their takeovers; those countries later formed the Alliance of Sahel States, distancing themselves from the bloc and former colonial power France.
A Benin takeover might have pushed the country — facing jihadist threats in the north — toward that alliance, further weakening ECOWAS.
Benin’s Port of Cotonou is a vital trade hub for landlocked neighbors, including Niger. Ties with Niger deteriorated after its 2023 coup when Benin enforced ECOWAS sanctions, rerouting Niger’s trade at higher costs.
Widespread frustration with politicians as self-interested elites has lent some public sympathy to coups in the region, successful or not.
Benin officials point to advances under Talon, such as infrastructure and investment, despite accusations of curbing opposition.
The future of Benin’s democracy
Presidential elections are set for April 2026, ending Talon’s second term. Critics say he has influenced changes weakening opponents, potentially aiding his party’s successor.
The coup has shaken faith in Benin’s decades-long democratic record. ECOWAS deployed a standby force to bolster security, with troops possibly staying to prevent further threats.
Talon recently met a Nigerian military delegation to strengthen post-coup ties.
For many Beninese, like Ayihuonsou, peace is paramount. “We just want to trade and live normally,” he said.
The episode is a stark warning: West Africa’s string of coups signals fragile stability, risking a return to military dominance in governance.
