Benin recently experienced a failed coup attempt, which began early on a Sunday when a faction of soldiers declared on state television that they had overthrown President Patrice Talon. The renegade military elements further announced the suspension of the constitution and the dissolution of legislative bodies. Heavy gunfire was reported around the President’s residence in Cotonou, and there were orders for the closure of the country’s borders and airspace. The soldiers cited concerns over the security situation in northern Benin and expressed grievances regarding their welfare as reasons for their actions.

However, the coup attempt was swiftly foiled by the government, supported by a larger section of the army, which managed to bring the situation "under control." Following these dramatic events, fourteen individuals, identified as military officers, have been arrested in connection with the failed overthrow. The government also confirmed President Talon's safety, noting that the 67-year-old leader is set to conclude his maximum two five-year constitutional terms and leave office in April 2026.

The attempted coup drew strong condemnation from international bodies, including the African Union (AU) and the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS. In response to the unstable political climate, ECOWAS activated its Standby Force and initiated the deployment of personnel to Benin on Sunday, December 7, 2025. This mission, according to ECOWAS, is intended to uphold constitutional governance and safeguard national security within the West African nation.

Despite ECOWAS's prompt action, International Relations Expert Professor Vladimir Antwi-Danso issued a cautionary appeal to the bloc. Speaking on Channels TV, Professor Antwi-Danso advised ECOWAS to exercise prudence and avoid a "knee-jerk deployment" of its regional standby force. He emphasized that the rapid decision-making, without a comprehensive understanding of the internal dynamics of the attempted coup, could expose both the mission and contributing countries to unnecessary risks, including potential casualties. Professor Antwi-Danso underscored the critical importance of sound intelligence, diplomatic engagement, and clearly defined operational goals for any intervention. While acknowledging ECOWAS's obligation to defend democratic institutions, he argued that a deliberate, well-coordinated approach would ultimately prove more effective than an immediate military response.