The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Sunday carried out coordinated precision airstrikes against suspected members of the foiled coup attempt in the Benin Republic, authoritative security sources have confirmed to Lagos Panorama Online News.
According to the sources, the operation—executed in close collaboration with Beninese authorities—targeted armed elements linked to Lt. Pascal Tigri, who led the failed attempt to dissolve state institutions in Cotonou. The suspects were reportedly attempting to escape in armoured vehicles after loyalist forces reasserted control.
The air interdiction, conducted on Sunday afternoon, involved multiple Nigerian fighter jets tasked with disabling the convoy and preventing the suspects from regrouping or fleeing the region.
“This was a precise, intelligence-driven operation,” a senior security officer disclosed. “The mission successfully disrupted their escape route and neutralised the vehicles being used for movement.”
Residents in parts of Cotonou reported hearing controlled blasts consistent with targeted air engagements, though officials stressed that the strikes were confined strictly to the designated security zone.
Nigeria’s swift action followed a request for support after the Beninese military moved to contain the attempted takeover led by Tigri, who briefly announced the dissolution of national institutions before forces loyal to the government restored order.
Another senior defence source emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability.
“Our engagement reflects Nigeria’s longstanding responsibility in promoting peace and preventing insecurity from escalating within the sub-region,” the source said.
Both Nigerian and Beninese authorities continue joint assessments, with follow-up operations underway to apprehend remaining members of the coup network.
