Authorities in the Republic of Benin have moved decisively following a recent attempt to overthrow the government, placing approximately thirty individuals in pre-trial detention. The suspects, a majority of whom are military personnel, are accused of involvement in the foiled plot earlier this month.
Court Proceedings and Serious Charges
On Monday, December 16, the suspects were presented before a special prosecutor at the Court for Economic Crimes and Terrorism in Cotonou. The following day, they were formally remanded in custody. They are now facing a series of grave charges, which include treason, murder, and acts threatening state security.
Security around the court was exceptionally tight during the hearings, underscoring the sensitivity of the case. The attempted takeover occurred on December 7, when mutinous soldiers briefly appeared on national television to announce the overthrow of President Patrice Talon.
Loyalist Response and Manhunt
The coup plot was swiftly crushed by forces loyal to the government. Reports indicate the operation received support from both the Nigerian Air Force and French special forces. Several fatalities were recorded during the incident.
While many are now in custody, a key figure remains at large. The alleged mastermind of the plot, Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, along with other mutineers, is still being sought by security agencies.
Widening Net on Opposition and Activists
In a related development that signals a broadening crackdown, the son of former President and opposition leader Thomas Boni Yayi, Chabi Yayi, was questioned and released on Monday. However, judicial sources confirm he remains under prosecution in connection with the coup and must report back to police later this week.
The government's response has extended beyond the military plotters. The Cotonou Court of Appeal recently upheld a two-year prison sentence against online activist Steve Amoussou, who ran a social media account critical of the administration.
Furthermore, former defence minister and prominent opposition figure Candide Azannai was arrested last Friday. It is not yet clear if his detention is directly linked to the coup attempt, which he publicly condemned.
In an international move, Benin has issued an arrest warrant for Pan-Africanist influencer Kemi Seba, accusing him of supporting the failed putsch. He is being prosecuted in absentia for advocating crimes against state security and inciting rebellion. Seba responded online, vowing, “we shall see this fight through to the end”.
Political Context and Succession
This unrest unfolds against a tense political backdrop. President Patrice Talon, who is constitutionally barred from a third term, is due to leave office in April after serving two terms. His tenure is marked by praise for economic growth but also accusations of authoritarianism from critics.
Attention is now shifting to the succession. Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni is widely considered the frontrunner, especially after the main opposition party was excluded from the ballot due to sponsorship requirements.
