By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Benin Republic coup plotters and jet fighter |
COCONUT, Benin Republic – In a swift and decisive cross-border military operation, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted multiple precision airstrikes against fleeing elements of the foiled military coup in the Benin Republic. Security sources confirmed the operation, which targeted insurgents attempting to escape Cotonou in armored vehicles following a loyalist counteroffensive.
The operation, executed over a critical 30-minute window, involved coordinated sorties by Nigerian fighter jets within Beninese airspace. According to reliable security sources, the airstrikes successfully immobilized several armored vehicles and disrupted key escape routes south of Cotonou, killing several coup plotters.
“The operation was meticulously planned and executed. Our objectives were clear: neutralize fleeing hostile elements, prevent regrouping, and restore stability in coordination with regional partners,” a high-level security source stated. The source emphasized that all actions were conducted with the full consent of Beninese authorities and in strict adherence to international protocols to minimize collateral damage.
This military intervention follows the failed coup led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who had briefly attempted to dissolve state institutions and seize military control of the Benin Republic. After loyalist forces foiled the takeover in Porto-Novo, key insurgent elements reportedly fled toward the economic capital, Cotonou, prompting Nigeria’s rapid aerial response.
Eyewitnesses in Cotonou reported multiple explosions in strategic locations, confirming the operational impact of the strikes. The Nigerian military’s action underscores its role as a regional security leader in West Africa.
A top Nigerian military officer affirmed the commitment to regional security, stating, “The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to safeguarding regional security and protecting the sovereignty of neighboring states. Our operations are intelligence-driven, precise, and aimed at preventing any spillover that could threaten our borders.”
This operation marks one of the most decisive high-profile Nigerian cross-border military actions in recent West African history. It highlights Nigeria’s proactive stance and operational readiness to counter destabilizing threats within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.
Efforts are currently ongoing to assess the full impact of the airstrikes. Nigerian and Beninese authorities are coordinating closely on follow-up operations, including search-and-apprehension missions for any surviving coup plotters. The successful collaboration sets a precedent for joint regional security measures against insurgency and unconstitutional changes of government.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as the joint security operation progresses.