Soldiers tried to take over Benin on Sunday. They wanted to remove President Talon. They said they formed a "Military Committee." They announced this on national television.
However, the government reacted very quickly. Beninese forces, with help from Nigeria, stopped the coup. They took back important buildings in the city of Cotonou. This happened within a few hours.
This event shows problems in West Africa. Military takeovers are happening more often there. The soldiers who tried the coup wanted to harm the government. But their plan did not work because of a fast response. This showed the loyalty of the Beninese army. It also showed how countries in the region can work together for security.
Nigeria sent fighter jets to help Benin. They attacked places where the coup plotters were. Nigerian ground troops also arrived to support the operation. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sent troops from other countries too. Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone sent soldiers. This showed ECOWAS is ready to protect democracy.
President Talon appeared on TV. He said the government was in control again. He thanked the army for their loyalty. Some people were hurt in the fighting. Some hostages were also taken. The president promised that those responsible would be punished.
This failed coup is important for the whole region. It was called an "attack on democracy." It highlights the worries about instability and security in West Africa. ECOWAS will likely keep troops there to prevent more problems. This event reminds us that even stable countries can face challenges.