The alleged leader of the recent coup attempt in Benin, Pascal Tigri, is reportedly seeking refuge in neighboring Togo, according to several news outlets, citing sources.
On Wednesday, sources told Reuters that Tigri and other military linked to the coup are believed to be hiding in Lome 2, a neighborhood in Togo’s capital, a claim also reported by Jeune Afrique.
One unnamed official, speaking to Reuters, stated that “if the Togolese government does not extradite them to Benin, that will be the proof that Togo was involved in the coup attempt.”
The mutiny began on Sunday, when a group of Beninese soldiers announced on national television that they had seized power. During the brief broadcast, the insurgents declared the suspension of Benin’s constitution and state institutions, while also closing air, land, and sea borders.
The group appointed Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as chairman of the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), declaring the body effective immediately. Shortly after the announcement, the TV signal was cut.
Benin’s military, backed by Nigerian troops, neutralized the attempted takeover within hours. At least 14 individuals were arrested, but Tigri managed to flee, with his whereabouts initially unknown.
President Patrice Talon condemned the coup attempt as an act of “treachery” and said it “will not go unpunished.”
The attempted coup triggered condemnation from across the region. Nigeria, the African Union, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have all reaffirmed support for Benin’s elected government.
Speaking at a security meeting in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, on Tuesday, ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray said the West African region is in a “state of emergency” due to crises including coups and the “growing reach of terrorist groups.”
The coup attempt came just months ahead of Benin’s presidential election, scheduled for April 12, 2026, which is expected to mark the end of President Talon’s second and final term in office. He has led the country since 2016.