Dare Babalola
A Benin opposition leader in exile has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for urgent intervention, warning that the country risks sliding into civil war unless an inclusive political dialogue is convened.
In a January 26, 2026 letter, Romaric Boco, Special Envoy of Les Démocrates, alleged opposition leaders in Benin face persecution.
Les Démocrates is led by former President Boni Yayi. Boco, a former member of the Political Bureau of the Bloc Républicain, said some opposition figures remain jailed after a failed December 7, 2025 coup, adding his wife was arrested when authorities couldn’t find him.
“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 noted the January 11, 2026 legislative elections resulted in a National Assembly composed entirely of pro-government deputies, excluding opposition from the April 2026 presidential vote. He warned that without prompt intervention, further unrest or civil conflict could erupt.
“Benin faces its darkest hour. The January 11, 2026 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.
The envoy urged President Tinubu to facilitate an inclusive national dialogue ahead of elections and requested a personal audience at the earliest convenience. He also sought assistance in arranging meetings with key Nigerian governors to support 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.
Nigeria had intervened in Benin’s coup attempt, deploying fighter jets and ground troops to support efforts to quell the coup.
