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An opposition figure from Benin living in exile has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently step in, warning that the country could descend into civil war without an inclusive political dialogue.
In a letter dated January 26, 2026, seen by PUNCH on Tuesday, Romaric Boco, who identified himself as “Special Envoy of Les Démocrates for International Mobilisation and Regional Dialogue”, accused Beninese authorities of targeting opposition leaders.
Les Démocrates is an opposition party headed by former President Boni Yayi. Boco, previously a member of the Political Bureau of the Bloc Républicain, said several opposition figures are still in detention following the failed coup of December 7, 2025. He also claimed his wife was arrested when security agents were unable to find him at home.
“Writing from exile in Europe, where I have taken refuge for several months, I appeal to you on behalf of Benin’s democratic resistance. Persecution targets the opposition: some leaders remain imprisoned since the failed coup of December 7, others have been assassinated, and my own wife was arrested when authorities could not find me at home,” he said.
Boco further alleged that the January 11, 2026, legislative elections resulted in a parliament made up solely of pro-government lawmakers and said the opposition had been barred from taking part in the April 2026 presidential election. He cautioned that the situation could deteriorate rapidly without outside intervention.
“Benin faces its darkest hour. The January 11, 202,6 legislative elections installed only pro-government deputies, and the opposition has been excluded from the April 2026 presidential vote. Without swift intervention, further unrest or civil war looms,” he said.
He appealed to Tinubu to broker an inclusive national dialogue ahead of the elections and requested an opportunity to meet with the Nigerian leader as soon as possible. He also requested support in arranging discussions with influential Nigerian governors to aid mediation efforts.
“Your Excellency, I humbly and respectfully request a personal audience at your earliest convenience. I also seek your assistance in facilitating meetings with key governors for this vital mediation effort.
“Your commitment to Benin’s democracy will be etched in our memory when constitutional order is restored. Nigerian solidarity can prevent chaos and preserve West African stability,” he said.
On December 7, 2025, a group of soldiers calling themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation briefly took control of strategic sites in Cotonou, including the national television station, and declared the removal of President Patrice Talon, the dissolution of state institutions and the suspension of the constitution. Government forces later regained control within hours.
At Benin’s request, Nigeria deployed fighter jets and ground troops to support efforts to contain the attempted coup. The letter highlights Nigeria’s prominent role in regional security, particularly the Nigerian Army’s involvement in countering the December 2025 uprising.
