Nigerian military aircraft struck targets in neighboring Benin Republic on Sunday after soldiers attempted to overthrow President Patrice Talon in a dawn coup that was quickly suppressed.

The Nigerian Air Force conducted the operation at the request of Beninese authorities, acting under ECOWAS protocols. Air Force spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame confirmed the strikes, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the military’s swift response to protect Benin’s 35-year democracy.

Eight soldiers calling themselves the “Military Committee for Refoundation” seized state television early Sunday and announced they had removed Talon from power. They cited deteriorating security in northern Benin, neglect of fallen soldiers, and unfair military promotions as justification for their actions.

Beninese Interior Minister Alassane, Seidou described the incident as “a mutiny” that was foiled by the armed forces. However, President Talon, aged 67, remained safe throughout the ordeal with sources confirming the regular army regained control by midday. Gunfire was heard in parts of the capital, Cotonou, as security forces worked to restore order.

The attempted coup adds to a troubling pattern of military takeovers across West Africa. In recent years, successful coups have occurred in Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. Benin itself has experienced multiple coups and coup attempts since gaining independence from France in 1960.

Northern Benin has also faced increasing jihadist violence, a concern the coup plotters specifically cited in their televised announcement.

The situation in Cotonou remained fluid Sunday evening as security forces worked to fully restore order. However, the exact targets of the Nigerian airstrikes were not disclosed.