The Benin Republic was thrown into turmoil on Saturday, December 7, 2025, after a group of mutinous soldiers attempted to overthrow the government of President Patrice Talon, resulting in the killing of the wife of General Bertin Bada, one of the country’s most senior military officials.
General Bada, who serves as the Director of the President’s Military Cabinet, was reportedly the target of an early-morning attack on his residence in Cotonou, where the assailants shot and killed his wife during the coordinated coup attempt.
How the coup unfolded
According to security and government sources, the rogue soldiers, operating under the name Military Committee for Refoundation, stormed the national television station, ORTB, where they declared the dissolution of state institutions and claimed to have taken control of the government.
Their broadcast lasted only a short period before loyalist forces moved in to regain control of the station and restore order.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later announced that the situation had been “fully contained,” assuring citizens that the attempted coup had failed and that government institutions remained intact.
Why the military official’s home was targeted
Security analysts say General Bada was targeted because of his central role in safeguarding the presidency.
The attackers reportedly intended to eliminate key figures within the defence hierarchy to weaken resistance and enable the takeover.
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General Bada was not at home during the attack. His wife, however, was caught in the assault and died on the spot.
Reactions from government and ECOWAS
The government of Benin immediately condemned the attack, describing it as a “criminal and reckless attempt to destabilise the nation.”
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also condemned the incident, calling it a threat to constitutional order in the region and pledging support to Benin as it conducts investigations.
Heightened political tension ahead of 2026 election
The failed coup comes just four months before Benin’s crucial April 2026 presidential election, which will mark the end of President Talon’s second and final term.
Political tension has been rising in recent months, with fears of instability as various political blocs position themselves for power.
Multiple arrests and investigation ongoing
Security forces have reportedly arrested several soldiers believed to be part of the plot, while others are still being tracked.
The government has vowed to prosecute everyone involved.
Meanwhile, the killing of General Bada’s wife has intensified calls for tightened security around senior officials and vulnerable civilian targets.
Beninese public urged to remain calm
Authorities have appealed to the population to remain calm, assuring that the government remains firmly in control.
The tragic killing, coupled with the audacious attempt to seize power, has sparked widespread concern but also renewed national support for democratic stability.
