Why Benin’s Coup Attempt Failed While Others Succeeded In West Africa

Last week’s attempted coup in Benin marked another dramatic moment in West Africa’s recent history of political instability. If the plotters had succeeded, it would have been the ninth successful military takeover in the region over the last five years. Yet, unlike in many neighbouring states, this attempt did not overhaul the government. 

The uprising started with a group of rebel soldiers seizing control of the national television and radio station in Cotonou, where they declared that President Patrice Talon had been removed from power. In response, ECO­WAS leaders acted quickly — authorizing Nigerian warplanes to strike positions held by the rebels and sending ground troops from Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone to support the constitutional government. 

Unlike some other West African nations where coups took root, Benin’s government and loyal military forces remained largely in control from the start. They successfully defended key areas of Cotonou and fought back the mutineers, who continued resisting with lethal force in some locations.

Part of what made this situation different was Benin’s strong democratic traditions and popular resistance to violent power seizures. While many citizens share frustrations — especially over the main opposition party being shut out of upcoming elections — there was little sign that the public supported a military takeover. In contrast, some neighbouring countries have experienced widespread dissatisfaction with government rule, making coups easier for soldiers to justify and sustain. 

Another factor was the regional bloc’s swift intervention. ECO­WAS appears to have learned from past experiences — including its slow response in Niger in 2023 — and chose to act rapidly when asked by Benin’s internationally recognized government. The quick deployment of support helped tilt the balance against the rebels.

In the broader regional picture, many of the coups that succeeded were fueled by unique local conditions — such as weak leadership, economic hardships, or public support for military rule. Benin’s situation was different: while there are economic and political tensions, including concerns about security in the northern regions, these grievances did not translate into a broad willingness to accept a forceful overthrow of the government. 

In the end, the rebel soldiers misjudged the environment in Benin — underestimating both the loyalty of the Armed Forces and the determination of regional partners to defend constitutional rule — leading to the failure of their coup attempt.