Two men closely linked to Benin's president have been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of attempting to orchestrate a coup against the small West African nation. Olivier Boko, identified as a businessman and long-time confidant of President Patrice Talon, and Oswald Homeky, the former sports minister, were convicted for crimes including conspiracy against state security and corruption of public officials.
The trial, which took place this week, revealed significant details about how the alleged coup unfolded. Both men were arrested last year, and their apprehension followed accusations of bribery concerning the commander of the presidential security. The damning evidence reportedly included Homeky being caught on video delivering six bags of cash to Colonel Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the head of the presidential guard.
According to Elonm Mario Metonou, the special prosecutor at Benin's court handling financial crimes and terrorism cases, the evidence against the duo was overwhelming. Metonou stated, “During the trial, Homeky was caught allegedly handing over six bags of money to the head of the presidential guard.” This level of financial interaction raised serious concerns about the depth of the conspiracy.
Boko, who has often been described as Talon's right-hand man, was implicated as the mastermind behind the coup attempt. His close ties to the president, alongside his aspirations to run for the 2026 presidential election, painted him as both powerful and, potentially, politically threatening. During the court proceedings, it was noted how his influence could have been used to undermine the administration led by Talon.
Following their sentencing on Thursday, January 30, 2025, the court ordered Boko and Homeky to also pay 60 billion CFA francs – roughly $95 million – as damages to the state, along with individual fines of 4.5 billion CFA francs (approximately $6.8 million). The severe financial penalties indicate the court's intent to deter future acts of political treachery.
Significantly, this case stands against the backdrop of political tension within Benin, which has been touted as one of Africa’s more stable democracies. Critics of President Talon's administration have accused him of using the justice system to target political rivals and suppress dissent since he assumed office in 2016. Changes made to electoral rules to bolster his political dominance have drawn scrutiny, particularly from opposition leaders and human rights advocates who claim he is diminishing judicial independence.
The backdrop of these arrests adds to the complexity of Talon's position following his reelection three years ago, during which he assured the public he would not seek a third term in the upcoming election, adhering to the constitutional limit of two presidential terms. Yet, many citizens remain skeptical of his intentions and the stability of his presidency.
Lawyers representing the defendants were conspicuously absent during the verdict, having withdrawn from the case as a protest against perceptions of unfair judicial processes. The absence of legal representation at such a pivotal moment has sparked discussions about the fairness of the trial.
Meanwhile, Rock Nieri, Boko’s brother-in-law, has been sentenced in absentia on the same charges as he remains at large. His fugitive status adds another layer of intrigue to this already intense political drama.
The serious consequences these men face are indicative of Talon's determination to maintain control and stability within his government, especially as the country approaches the 2026 presidential elections. It serves as both a warning to potential conspirators and as part of Talon’s broader strategy to consolidate political power.
Overall, as the dust settles on this high-profile sentencing, many are left to wonder what the outcomes will mean for Benin's democratic integrity and for President Talon’s administration moving forward.