Exiled Benin opposition Leader seeks Tinubu’s intervention, warns of looming crisis

An exiled opposition figure from the Republic of Benin has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene in the country’s deepening political crisis, warning that the West African nation risks descending into civil unrest if inclusive dialogue is not initiated.

In a letter dated January 26, 2026, and obtained by reporters on Tuesday, Romaric Boco — Special Envoy of Les Démocrates for International Mobilisation and Regional Dialogue — alleged systematic repression of opposition voices and shrinking democratic space in Benin.

Boco claimed that the January 11, 2026 legislative elections resulted in a National Assembly composed entirely of pro-government lawmakers, effectively sidelining opposition representation. He further alleged that opposition parties have been excluded from participating in the forthcoming April 2026 presidential election.

“Benin faces its darkest hour,” Boco wrote. “The January 11 legislative elections installed only pro-government deputies, and the opposition has been excluded from the April presidential vote. Without swift intervention, further unrest or civil war looms.”

Les Démocrates, led by former President Boni Yayi, remains the country’s principal opposition platform.

Writing from exile in Europe, Boco said he fled the country amid mounting political pressure. He alleged that several opposition leaders have remained in detention since the failed coup attempt of December 7, 2025, while others were reportedly assassinated. He further claimed that his wife was arrested after security agents were unable to locate him at his residence.

“Persecution targets the opposition,” he stated. “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.”

The envoy appealed to President Tinubu to leverage Nigeria’s regional influence to facilitate an inclusive national dialogue before the presidential election. He also requested a personal audience with the Nigerian leader and sought assistance in engaging key state governors to support mediation efforts.

“Your Excellency, I humbly request a personal audience at your earliest convenience. I also seek your assistance in facilitating meetings with key governors for this vital mediation effort,” he wrote.

He expressed hope that Nigeria’s intervention could help avert instability in Benin and safeguard regional peace.

“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,” Boco added.

Recall that on December 7, 2025, a faction of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation briefly seized strategic locations in Cotonou, including the state television station. The group announced the removal of President Patrice Talon, dissolution of government institutions and suspension of the constitution.

However, the Beninese authorities, backed by loyal forces, regained control within hours. Nigeria subsequently intervened at the request of the Beninese government, deploying fighter jets and ground troops in support of efforts to contain the attempted coup.

The latest appeal underscores growing concerns over political stability in the region amid rising tensions ahead of Benin’s presidential election.