The Nigerian military has deployed fighter aircraft to the Benin Republic in response to reports of a possible military coup that allegedly toppled President Patrice Talon on Sunday.
Security sources confirmed to Vanguard that the aircraft, which took off from Lagos, was seen operating within the Benin Republic’s airspace as Nigeria escalated aerial surveillance to monitor the rapidly evolving political and security situation in the neighbouring country.
A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the deployment was a precautionary measure designed to assess potential regional security threats and safeguard Nigeria’s national interests.
“The aircraft has already arrived in the Benin Republic. Nigeria is closely monitoring developments and evaluating potential risks. This is not an offensive operation but a strategic response to unfolding events,” the source revealed.
Reports from Benin indicated that the alleged coup was led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who purportedly declared the dissolution of state institutions and assumed full military control of the country.
The group, calling itself the Military Committee for Rebuilding, also announced the suspension of the November 2025 Constitution, the dissolution of all state institutions, and the suspension of political party activities. Furthermore, the committee announced the closure of land, sea, and air borders until further notice.
Given the proximity and porous nature of the border between Nigeria and Benin Republic, developments in the neighboring country present a direct security concern for Nigeria.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian government had yet to issue an official statement.
However, military sources confirmed that surveillance operations would continue until the situation becomes clearer.
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