Attempted coup in Benin: Nicéphore Soglo condemns

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In a widely shared statement, he expresses his indignation at the action carried out by a group of soldiers who attempted to take control of several strategic points, including the national television station.

Nicéphore Soglo recalls his status as the first president of the democratic era that emerged from the 1990 National Conference. He says he is deeply concerned by this attempt to challenge the constitutional order, a major achievement for more than three decades.

According to him, the rapid intervention of the defense and security forces prevented the worst, at the cost of human sacrifices.

He expresses his support for President Patrice Talon and praises the coordination carried out with the military command to contain the advance of the mutineers. The former head of state stresses the professionalism and loyalty of the armed forces, which he congratulates for having ensured republican continuity at a critical moment.

In his statement, he condemns the violence committed and expresses his compassion to the families affected by the events. He notably mentions the death of General Bertin Bada’s wife, who was killed during the attack on their home. He also sends his wishes for recovery to the injured.

Soglo’s statement

Beninese women, Beninese men,
My dear compatriots,

I learned with consternation and great indignation of the reports of an attempted military coup aimed at destabilizing the institutions of the Republic of Benin.

As the First President of the era of Democratic Renewal, I condemn with the utmost firmness the attempt to undermine the constitutional order, which took place on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

Thanks to the bravery of the Defense and Security Forces, our country avoided the worst. At the price of the supreme sacrifice, the FDS preserved the integrity of the Republic and ensured the continuity of the State through their loyalty and professionalism.

In these circumstances, I express my closeness to the President of the Republic, Head of State, Head of Government, President Patrice TALON, and congratulate him for having coordinated with the Military Commander the operations that once again demonstrated our country’s resilience in the face of this ordeal.

I strongly condemn this vile attack and praise the courage and determination shown by the President of the Republic and the Defense and Security Forces in handling this situation, especially since he is not a candidate for a third term.

I extend my compliments and warm congratulations to our valiant armed forces for having succeeded in preserving the integrity of the Republic and ensuring the continuity of the State.

They have once again been true to their oath and to the expectations of the Beninese people.

I firmly condemn these acts that are contrary to republican values and to the stability of our country. No political project can justify violence, much less the sacrifice of innocent lives.

In these tragic hours, I call for a patriotic awakening, for calm and national unity so that our Nation can continue to move forward on the path of peace, progress, and democracy.

I call on the Beninese people for calm and peace. I invite Beninese women and men to lend their support and backing to President TALON and his government for the continuation of the work of modernization and the building of sustainable economic and social development for Benin.

This attempted coup has unfortunately caused deaths.

It is with deep sadness that I learned of the loss of life that occurred during the recent attempted coup.

In these moments of pain and trial, I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

May the memory of their departed loved ones remain forever a source of inspiration, strength, and unity for our Nation.

In these painful circumstances, I offer condolences to the bereaved families, especially to General Bertin BADA, whose wife, one of the modern-day Amazons, tragically lost her life in these events.

I also send my wishes for a speedy and full recovery to all the wounded. May they quickly regain their health, surrounded by appropriate care and the support of their loved ones.

May God protect our country and bless each of its sons and daughters.

Nicéphore Dieudonné SOGLO
Former President of the Republic,
Vice-President of the Forum of Former Heads of State and Government
Created in 2006 in Paputo under the patronage of Nelson MANDELA.