Authorities in Benin Republic announced that they have successfully thwarted a planned coup that was set to occur on September 27, 2024. Prosecutors revealed the details of the alleged plot on Wednesday, highlighting the involvement of high-ranking officials.
Elonm Metonou, a special prosecutor at the Benin court for financial crimes and terrorism, disclosed that former sports minister Oswald Homeky was apprehended on Tuesday night while allegedly handing over six bags filled with cash to Djimon Tevoedjre, the commander of the republican guard responsible for President Patrice Talon’s security.
“It appears the Republican Guard commander was engaged by Minister Oswald Homeky and Olivier Boko to execute a coup by force,” Metonou stated.
The bags seized during the operation contained approximately 1.5 billion West African CFA francs, which is roughly equivalent to $2.5 million. Investigations revealed that a bank account was opened in Côte d’Ivoire under Tevoedjre’s name on August 6, indicating a premeditated financial operation. Authorities reported that the funds were transported in Homeky’s vehicle, a Toyota Prado, which was fitted with fake license plates.
Olivier Boko, a businessman and close ally of President Talon, was also implicated in the conspiracy and arrested earlier in the week in Cotonou, the commercial capital of Benin. Boko, who has publicly expressed his presidential ambitions for the 2026 election, allegedly conspired with Homeky to pay off the military commander to ensure a smooth takeover.
As investigations continue, authorities are actively seeking to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the alleged coup plot.
The recent thwarted attempt is part of a broader trend in West Africa, where several nations have experienced successful coups or attempted military takeovers since 2020. President Talon, who has been in power since 2016, faces increasing scrutiny, with critics accusing him of undermining democratic institutions and consolidating power.