Two men close to Benin’s president have been remanded in custody on charges of plotting a coup.
The men, Olivier Boko, a businessman, and Oswald Homeky, a former sports minister, were arrested last week.
They face charges of conspiracy against state security, corruption of public funds, and money laundering.
Their lawyer, Ayodele Ahounou, confirmed their detention on Tuesday.
Boko, a longtime ally of President Patrice Talon, is accused of masterminding the coup.
He was arrested in Cotonou, the capital of Benin. Homeky was apprehended while allegedly handing over bags of money to the commander of the Republican Guard.
Both men are accused of attempting to bribe the commander responsible for the president’s security to execute the coup.
Prosecutor Elonm Mario Metonou provided details of the arrests.
Benin, once considered one of Africa’s most stable democracies, has seen political tensions rise under Talon’s leadership.
Critics accuse Talon of using the judiciary to target his political opponents.
Talon, who was reelected in 2021 after consolidating power, has promised not to seek a third term.
Benin’s constitution limits presidents to two terms, with the next election set for 2026.
