World
BREAKING: Fresh coup stirs West Africa as Soldiers announce takeover in Benin Republic
A fresh wave of political tension has gripped West Africa, barely days after soldiers toppled the government in Guinea-Bissau.
This time, uncertainty is unfolding in the Benin Republic, where a group of soldiers appeared on the national broadcaster to announce that they had taken control of the government.
The group, which identified itself as the Military Committee for Refoundation, declared on Sunday that President Patrice Talon and all state institutions had been dissolved.
President Talon, who has been in power since 2016, was expected to complete his tenure next April ahead of the country’s presidential election.
His party had lined up former Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as its preferred candidate, with analysts widely tipping him as the likely successor. In contrast, the leading opposition figure, Renaud Agbodjo, was barred from contesting after the electoral commission ruled that he did not secure the required number of sponsors.
The political atmosphere in Benin had already been tense following last month’s constitutional amendment.
Lawmakers approved an extension of the presidential term from five to seven years, though the two-term cap was retained, an adjustment that triggered public debate and criticism from opposition blocs.
With Sunday’s announcement, the country now joins a growing list of West African states battling military interventions and democratic setbacks. As at press time, no official response had been issued by President Talon or senior civilian authorities.
Follow Us on Google Discover
Awujale Stool: Court cautions parties against interference
2027: NDC rejects 10 Anambra candidates, seeks INEC portal audit
World Bank moves to support electricity reforms in Nigeria
NIS repatriates 99 foreigners over irregular migration
Fear grips Sokoto community as bandits threaten fresh attack, demand N40m levy
Abuja Police rescue 4-year-old girl from suspected traffickers
Workers write FG, seek N300,000 minimum wage
Army foils kidnap attempt, rescues retired general’s wife in Abuja
French authorities arrest teen over alleged plot to abduct Kylian Mbappe
Fury blasts Joshua, calls him ‘Coward’ as blockbuster fight delays
PFIPC: Reps clear Gbajabiamila, uncover forged documents
Wike tackles APC governors, accuses Uzodinma, Abdulrazaq of plotting against him
Akwa Ibom Gov’t sparks controversy after describing Akpabio as ‘Acting President’
I think about Tinubu’s re-election everyday, if he loses, Atiku, Obi will deal with me – Wike
Kwankwaso arrives Port Harcourt ahead of 2027 election
NAF opens 2026 recruitment for tradesmen, non-tradesmen
I think about Tinubu’s re-election everyday, if he loses, Atiku, Obi will deal with me – Wike
2027: I will review NELFUND, offer debt forgiveness to Nigerian students – Atiku vows
‘Why can’t Nigerians buy petrol for N441-N872 per litre like, UAE, Angola Sudi Arabia, others’ – Atiku questions Tinubu
Yuguda warns Nigerians against Atiku’s promise to restore fuel subsidy, says its a political bait
2027: APC chieftain resigns, rejects support for Tinubu, Bauchi Governorship candidate
On LG Autonomy: I will send funds directly to LGs from Day 1 in office – Atiku vows
Don’t discuss Atiku’s NYSC certificate case against Tinubu in public – Judge warns lawyers
Xenophobia: Nigeria will no longer tolerate dehumanisation of its citizens in South Africa — Shettima
Tinubu’s effort to secure Trump’s support for re-election has failed – Atiku’s lobbying firm claim
North, biggest beneficiary of my reforms — Tinubu, Arewa Forum, others disagree
Nollywood hit by another loss as Atinuke Kareem dies after prolonged cancer battle
2027: Major Jack picked as Chinda’s running mate in Rivers
Strong GDP, Reserves don’t put food on Nigerians’ tables – APC Chairman
