Political analyst and former Director of Communication at ECOWAS, Adama Gaye, has provided a detailed account of tense developments in Benin following what he described as an attempted coup targeting the government of President Patrice Talon. Gaye shared his insights during an interview on Al Jazeera, drawing from firsthand information and ongoing communication with contacts on the ground.
Speaking from Ghana, where he is currently based, Gaye said he has been closely monitoring the unfolding situation and remains in direct touch with individuals reporting live from Benin. He indicated that the attack, reportedly led by soldiers under the command of Lieutenant Pascal Tigri, focused on President Talon’s private residence, resulting in heavy gunfire and significant fear among residents.
“I’m very close to Benin. I’m speaking to you from Ghana. Military attacked the house of the president, Mr Patrice Talon and there was heavy gunfire,” Gaye stated during the interview.
He emphasized that the assault represented a serious breach of security and sent shockwaves through the nation and the wider West African region.
According to Gaye, the scenes in Benin were chaotic, with local sources describing rapid troop movements, heightened checkpoints, and widespread uncertainty about the military’s motives and objectives.
While details regarding casualties or arrests remain unclear, the analyst underscored that the situation points to deep-seated tensions within the armed forces and the potential for broader instability if the crisis is not quickly contained.
The attempted coup, as outlined by Gaye, appears to have been narrowly focused on seizing the president’s residence, suggesting a targeted action rather than a coordinated nationwide takeover. Nonetheless, the incident has raised immediate concerns among neighboring countries and regional organizations such as ECOWAS, which have historically played a role in mediating political crises and maintaining stability in West Africa.
Gaye also highlighted the broader implications for governance in Benin, noting that any successful breach of the presidential compound could have far-reaching consequences for civilian confidence in the state and for regional security.
He called for swift investigations and reassurances from Benin’s authorities to prevent panic and further escalation.
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