A failed coup attempt in Benin on Sunday saw soldiers announce they had seized power on state TV, but was thwarted with the help of Nigerian fighter jets and possibly French special forces. The coup leader, Lt Col Pascal Tigri, is reportedly seeking refuge in Togo, prompting the Beninese government to request his extradition. The coup reflects growing instability in West Africa, where recent military takeovers have raised concerns about democracy. President Patrice Talon, in power since 2016, is set to step down next year amid criticism of his government’s handling of dissent and socio-economic issues.
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