Soldiers in Benin Republic have tried to take over the government. They attacked the home of President Patrice Talon in Cotonou and took control of the national TV station. This happened early on Sunday, December 7,
A group of soldiers went on TV to say they had removed President Talon from power. They said they dissolved the government, closed the borders, and stopped all political parties. The leader is Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri.
People heard gunshots near the president's house at dawn.
But country's Interior Minister confirmed that the coup has failed. Loyal troops fought back and stopped the rebels. President Talon is safe, according to the army. The soldiers held the TV station for a short time but were pushed out.
Benin is in West Africa, next to Nigeria. President Talon has been in power since 2016. He plans to leave office next year when his term ends. This is the latest coup try in the region. West Africa has seen many coups in recent years.
The situation is still changing. No one knows if the soldiers will try again. People in Cotonou are staying inside. The government has not said much yet.
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