Authorities in Benin have placed former defence minister and opposition figure Candide Azannai in pre-trial detention as investigations continue into an attempted coup earlier this month.
Okay News gathered that Azannai was arrested at his party’s headquarters in Cotonou and is accused of plotting against the state and inciting rebellion.
The foiled coup unfolded on December 7, when mutinous soldiers briefly claimed on national television that President Patrice Talon had been overthrown. Loyalist forces, backed by support from the Nigerian Air Force, quickly regained control. Around 30 suspects—mostly soldiers—have since been charged with treason, while several alleged ringleaders remain at large.
The incident has heightened political tension in the West African country, where critics accuse President Talon of tightening his grip on power despite economic gains under his leadership. Talon steps down in April when he will complete his constitutional two-term limit.
