By Muhammad Mamman
Benin’s military has launched an intensive manhunt for fugitive soldiers accused of orchestrating a failed coup attempt over the weekend, an incident that left several people dead and sent shockwaves across the West African region.
Security sources confirmed that the rogue soldiers fled after the attempted overthrow was thwarted by loyalist forces, prompting a nationwide search involving specialised military and intelligence units. Authorities have tightened security around key government installations, while checkpoints have been reinforced along major highways and border routes.
The government condemned the attack as a “treacherous assault on national stability”, vowing that all those responsible would be apprehended and prosecuted. Officials described the coup attempt as an isolated plot driven by a small faction within the military.
In response to Benin’s request for assistance, several West African countries have begun mobilising to provide military and logistical support aimed at safeguarding democratic order and preventing further destabilisation. Regional leaders have reiterated their commitment to resisting unconstitutional changes of government, which have become increasingly common across parts of West Africa in recent years.
Benin’s authorities have urged citizens to remain calm, assuring them that the situation is under control and that efforts to track down the fugitives are progressing swiftly.
