Cotonou, Benin – Life in Benin’s bustling capital is gradually returning to normal after a failed coup attempt that shook the nation and raised alarms across West Africa. Loyalist forces, aided by the Nigerian Air Force, swiftly quashed Sunday’s putsch, restoring order but leaving lingering concerns about the country’s democratic stability.

Life Returns to Normal in Cotonou

At the Dantokpa market, one of West Africa’s largest trading hubs, pedestrians, street vendors, and cart pushers are once again busy in the narrow streets, signaling a return to everyday life. Traders like Abel Ayihuonsou expressed relief:

“For the moment, everything is back to normal. And that’s very good for the country, and we are happy.”

The Failed Putsch

The crisis began early Sunday morning when a group of soldiers seized the national television station and announced the deposition of President Patrice Talon. However, forces loyal to the president, with crucial support from Nigeria’s Air Force, quickly defeated the coup plotters.

Nigerian fighter jets targeted mutineers while Beninese loyalists surrounded the base occupied by the coup leaders, forcing them to retreat from both the television station and the presidential palace. By Sunday afternoon, the interior minister confirmed that the army had “foiled the attempt,” and President Talon appeared on state television promising justice:

“I would like to assure you that the situation is completely under control and therefore invite you to calmly go about your activities starting this very evening.”

Nigeria’s Strategic Role

Beninese journalist Moise Dosumou noted that Nigeria’s rapid intervention was key in quelling the coup, highlighting the strategic importance of regional powers in maintaining stability:

“A threat of instability at its doorstep would inevitably spill over onto both Nigeria and ECOWAS,” he said.

While the intervention received praise from the African Union and ECOWAS, some Nigerians questioned why their forces could prevent a coup abroad but struggle against armed groups and banditry at home.

Regional Implications

The failed coup occurs amid a wave of military takeovers across West Africa. Recent successful coups in Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau have destabilized the region, prompting concerns that a successful takeover in Benin could have further weakened ECOWAS.

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed by Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali after suspensions by ECOWAS, initially welcomed the announcement by Benin’s coup leaders. Analysts suggest that if the putsch had succeeded, Benin could have joined AES, isolating ECOWAS further.

Investigations and International Cooperation

The Beninese government described the coup as a domestic plot but indicated the investigation could extend internationally:

“If investigations allow us to trace it back to a foreign country or foreign forces that contributed to it, we will express our disapproval and condemnation,” said Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji, government spokesperson.

Benin’s role as a maritime hub, particularly its port in Cotonou, adds economic stakes to political stability. Neighboring Niger, a landlocked nation, relies heavily on Cotonou for imports and exports. Past instability, including the 2023 coup in Niamey, disrupted regional trade routes, highlighting the economic implications of political unrest.

The Future of Benin’s Democracy

President Talon, completing his second term, remains backed by ECOWAS, whose forces help secure Benin’s democracy. However, confidence in the permanence of democratic institutions has been shaken. Presidential elections scheduled for next April, though Talon is not running, may still reflect his influence on the political landscape.

The duration of Nigerian military presence and ECOWAS support remains uncertain, leaving citizens and regional observers cautious. Many in West Africa are reminded that political stability is fragile, and the recent surge in coups underscores the continuing risk of military takeovers in the region.