Benin Republic Coup Plotters Tried to Shoot Down Nigerian Fighter Jet

Fresh details emerged on Monday revealing how coup plotters in the Benin Republic attempted to shoot down a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jet that flew over their airspace. The pilot, however, skillfully maneuvered the aircraft and avoided the gunfire fired from Cotonou.

A video capturing the jet’s evasive actions was shared on social media by security expert Zagazola Makama.

It was further confirmed that President Bola Tinubu authorized the deployment of the fighter jet as part of Nigeria’s involvement in quelling the attempted coup in the neighbouring Benin Republic. Reports indicated that the Nigerian Air Force carried out aerial strikes targeting fleeing coup plotters.

As loyal soldiers battled to suppress the coup at the residence of President Patrice Talon and around the presidential palace, the coup plotters who attempted to escape came under fire from the NAF fighter jet. They were reportedly fleeing Cotonou in armoured vehicles when the jet intercepted them.

The air operation, executed within a span of 30 minutes, involved several well-coordinated strikes by Nigerian fighter jets operating inside Beninese airspace.

Sources stated: “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.”

Reports confirmed that the mission received approval from Beninese authorities and was executed professionally in strict adherence to international protocols. There were no reports of collateral damage.

Eyewitnesses in Cotonou confirmed hearing multiple explosions across strategic areas, underscoring the effectiveness of the strikes.

According to the sources, the airstrikes successfully disabled the armoured vehicles and blocked escape routes used by the coup plotters, resulting in the death of several of them.

This intervention followed the failed coup attempt led by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who had briefly tried to dissolve state institutions and seize full military control of the Benin Republic.