Nigerian Air Force Conducts Interdictions on Fleeing Benin Coup Plotters
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted strategic and precision airstrikes on elements of the recently foiled military coup in the Benin Republic, according to security sources.
The strikes were executed within Beninese airspace to neutralize plotters attempting to escape Cotonou.
Sources confirmed that the operation was carried out in full consent and coordination with Beninese authorities, and was conducted under the framework of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
The operation targeted coup plotters and their equipment, particularly armored vehicles being used to flee Cotonou following the successful counter-operation by loyalist forces.
The primary goals were to neutralize hostile elements, prevent their regrouping, and restore stability in the neighboring country.
Eyewitnesses reported multiple explosions in Cotonou, and sources indicated the strikes successfully immobilized the armored vehicles, disrupted escape routes, and killed several coup plotters.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed the rapid Nigerian air intervention, stating that the deployment of NAF assets came in response to urgent requests from the Government of Benin for air support to dislodge the plotters who had briefly seized the National TV station and a military camp.
The intervention follows the failed takeover led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, who attempted to suspend democratic institutions in Benin.
Nigeria’s decisive cross-border operation illustrates its commitment to safeguarding regional security and preventing instability from threatening its borders.
