THREE men, including a former minister and the head of President Patrice Talon’s security, have been arrested in Benin on suspicion of planning a coup, according to the state prosecutor. The arrests have sent shockwaves through the West African nation.
Former sports minister Oswald Homeky was apprehended on Tuesday while handing over six bags of money to Col Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the head of the Republican Guard, as part of a bribery attempt, prosecutors revealed during a press conference. Investigators allege that the bribe was intended to ensure Tevoedjre would not resist the coup, which was reportedly scheduled for Friday.
Also arrested was businessman Olivier Boko, a close associate of President Talon, who had recently hinted at political ambitions. Boko’s lawyers and supporters have condemned his arrest, describing it as an ‘abduction’ and calling for his immediate release.
State prosecutors confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify further suspects involved in the coup plot.
Benin, once hailed as a model of multi-party democracy, has faced increasing criticism under President Talon’s leadership, with rights groups accusing the government of becoming more autocratic. Despite this, President Talon has announced he will not seek a third term in the upcoming 2026 elections.
The coup attempt in Benin comes against a backdrop of political instability in the region. Since 2020, West and Central Africa have seen eight military takeovers and numerous coup attempts.
The investigation into the alleged coup plot continues as political tensions in Benin remain high.
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