In a dramatic escalation of political turmoil, a military officer in Benin has seized control of the national television station and declared himself the country's new leader in an apparent coup d'état.
Televised Takeover and Presidential Attack
The unfolding crisis began with reports of an attack on the residence of Benin's President, Patrice Talon. Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri is reported to have led the assault before moving to the state broadcaster's studios.
From a television studio, flanked by other soldiers, Tigri read from a script to announce the takeover. He declared that the military was "dismissing" President Talon from his post and that he, Tigri, was now the president of a military committee tasked with restructuring the West African nation.
Immediate Aftermath and Nationwide Shutdown
The military's announcement included sweeping measures that effectively shut down the country's political system. The constitution, which was only adopted in November 2025, has been suspended and all state institutions dissolved.
In a move to consolidate control, the new military authority has imposed a nationwide lockdown on political activities and sealed the country's borders. The decree states that all activities of political parties are suspended until further notice.
Furthermore, the land, maritime, and air borders of Benin have been closed, isolating the country from immediate external influence or intervention.
Regional Stability Under Threat
This coup represents a severe blow to the stability of a region that has witnessed several military takeovers in recent years. The swift seizure of the broadcast centre highlights a classic tactic for controlling the narrative during a power grab.
Images broadcast from the studio showed Lieutenant Colonel Tigri delivering his statement while armed soldiers stood guard, presenting a stark image of a nation in the grip of a sudden and forceful transition of power. The situation remains fluid, and the whereabouts and condition of deposed President Patrice Talon are currently unconfirmed.
