The Nigerian military has deployed fighter aircraft to the Benin Republic following reports on Sunday of a military takeover that allegedly removed President Patrice Talon from power, security sources confirmed.
According to the sources, the jets departed Lagos and were later sighted operating within Benin’s airspace as Nigeria stepped up aerial surveillance to assess the fast-evolving political and security situation in the neighbouring country.
A senior security official described the deployment as a precautionary measure aimed at evaluating possible regional threats and protecting Nigeria’s strategic interests.
“The aircraft have already arrived in 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 said.
Earlier reports indicated that the alleged takeover was led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who reportedly announced the dissolution of state institutions and assumed military authority.
The group behind the reported coup, calling itself the Military Committee for Rebuilding, declared the suspension of the November 2025 Constitution, dissolution of all political and administrative structures, a halt to political activities, and the closure of all borders.
Nigeria shares an extensive and porous border with Benin Republic, making any instability there a direct security concern for Abuja.
However, military sources said aerial monitoring would continue “until the situation becomes clearer.”
