A new development has emerged in the Benin coup attempt case. Former minister under Boni Yayi, Alassane Tigri, was arrested late Wednesday afternoon, January 28, 2026, at his home in Cotonou. The politician is being prosecuted for "attacks against the authority of the state, complicity in murder, and treason," reports RFI. Judicial authorities want to establish his involvement in the events of December 7, 2025.

He reportedly received a phone call from Pascal Tigri the day before the attempted coup.

Alassane Tigri reportedly told magistrates that he had been contacted by his half-brother, Pascal Tigri, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, the day before the attempted coup. The Lieutenant-Colonel wanted to know his whereabouts.

He reportedly replied that he was in Tanguiéta, in the north of the country. At this point, Pascal Tigri abruptly ended the call. The former minister maintains that he asked his half-brother no further questions.

It was only the next day that he learned, like everyone else, that the latter was the mastermind behind the attempted coup. He says he then left his residence, fearing for his safety.

Placed under arrest warrant

According to the newspaper Fraternité, his statements did not convince the judges who decided to place him under arrest warrant.

It should be noted that Mr. Tigri is a well-known figure in Beninese political circles. He served as Minister of Sports under former President Boni Yayi. Currently, he holds the position of Vice-President of the opposition party, Les Démocrates.