Nigeria deploys fighter jets to Benin Airspace amid coup attempt

The Nigerian military deployed fighter aircraft to the airspace of Benin Republic on Sunday, following reports of an attempted military coup against President Patrice Talon. The jets were deployed from Lagos, for surveillance and monitoring operation before being withdrawn later in the day as the crisis stabilized.
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The aircraft were observed operating within Beninese airspace shortly after mutinous soldiers, led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri of the self-proclaimed Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), announced the dissolution of state institutions on state television.
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According to a senior security personnel, the deployment was not an offensive operation but a strategic response to the unfolding events and the need to evaluate potential risks along the shared border.
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The jets were ordered to return to base later on Sunday afternoon after intelligence confirmed that Beninese forces had successfully foiled the coup attempt and re-established control, determining there was no threat to the territorial security of Nigeria.
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The Federal Government of Nigerian issued a statement condemning the attempted coup, describing it as an assault to democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people.
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Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, reaffirmed Nigeria’ solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria applauded the quick action, courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of President Talon.
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