The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out strategic airstrikes on fleeing elements of the recently foiled military coup in the Benin Republic, security sources have confirmed. The operation targeted coup plotters and their equipments attempting to escape Cotonou in armoured vehicles following the swift intervention by loyalist forces in the country.
The airstrikes, executed over the past 30 minutes, involved multiple coordinated strikes carried out by Nigerian fighter jets operating within Beninese airspace. “The operation was meticulously planned and executed. Our objectives were clear: neutralize fleeing hostile elements, prevent regrouping, and restore stability in coordination with regional partners,” the sources stated. The sources emphasized that all actions were conducted in conscent of Benin authorities as well as in strict adherence to international protocols to minimise collateral damage while maximising operational impact.
Eyewitnesses reported multiple explosions in strategic locations across Cotonou, confirming the effectiveness of the strikes. The sources said that the strikes successfully immobilized the armoured vehicles and disrupted escape routes used by the coup plotters and killing several of them. The intervention comes in the wake of a failed coup led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who had briefly attempted to dissolve state institutions and seize full military control of Benin Republic. Following the foiled takeover, key insurgent elements attempted to flee southward, prompting Nigeria’s rapid aerial response.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to safeguarding regional security and protecting the sovereignty of neighbouring states,” A top Military officer said. “Our operations are intelligence-driven, precise, and aimed at preventing any spillover that could threaten our borders.” Zagazola report that this marks one of the most decisive and high-profile Nigerian Military cross-border operations in recent West African history, illustrating Nigeria’s readiness to act decisively against destabilising threats in the region. Efforts are ongoing to assess the full impact of the airstrikes and to coordinate with Beninese authorities for follow-up operations, including the apprehension of surviving coup plotters
Credit:Zagazola Makama
