Colonel Pascal Tigri, alleged leader of the soldiers who briefly took over Benin Republic’s national television station on Sunday, is currently on the run, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Onanuga revealed this in a post on his X account on Sunday.
Although Tigri has escaped arrest, Beninese authorities have detained several other members of the mutinous group after defence and security forces successfully foiled the attempted coup.
Benin’s Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, later addressed the nation, confirming that the situation had been brought under control.
“Early on Sunday morning, 7 December 2025, a small group of soldiers launched a mutiny aimed at destabilising the state and its institutions,” Seidou said.
“The Beninese armed forces, loyal to their oath, responded swiftly, retaking control and preventing the attempt. The government urges citizens to continue with their normal activities.”
The failed mutiny caused heightened security alerts across Cotonou before loyal forces restored calm and regained control of key state installations.
In another statement attributed to President Ahmed Tinubu and communicated by Onanuga, the presidency noted that the National Guard had secured major locations, surrounded the national broadcaster, and contained the remaining mutineers.
“According to local outlet 24 Hours in Benin, negotiations are ongoing with the group still inside the station,” the presidency added.
Authorities say the situation is now stabilised, and efforts continue to ensure full restoration of order.
