According to security sources, the jets took off from Lagos and were observed operating in Beninese airspace. The deployment reflects Nigeria’s decision to intensify aerial surveillance, in order to monitor the rapidly evolving security and political situation across the border.
A senior security official described the action as a “precautionary move” — not an offensive operation — aimed at assessing potential regional threats and protecting Nigeria’s national interests.
The alleged coup in Benin was triggered when a group of soldiers calling themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) appeared on state television on Sunday morning. The soldiers declared that President Talon had been removed from power, announced the dissolution of all state institutions, and appointed Pascal Tigri as their leader.
They also announced the suspension of the constitution, closure of the country’s land, sea and air borders, and suspension of all political party activities — effectively claiming full control of the government.
Gunfire was reported near Camp Guézo — close to the President’s residence — and the national broadcaster’s signal was cut shortly after the announcement.
However, within hours, loyalist forces from the Benin Armed Forces moved to retake control. According to the country’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, government troops successfully thwarted the mutiny. The presidency confirmed that President Talon was safe and that security forces were regaining control of key institutions.
Following the restoration of control, the Nigerian military withdrew its deployed fighter jets after concluding that the security situation had stabilized and that there was no immediate cross-border threat.
Meanwhile, the regional bloc ECOWAS condemned the attempted takeover, calling it a breach of constitutional order. ECOWAS pledged to support the Beninese government in defending the country’s territorial integrity and upholding the constitution.
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