Emmanuel Akimotu

Emmanuel Akimotu, NPR News, Lagos.

The soldiers took over the state broadcaster and announced in a live address they had deposed President Patrice Talon.

Gunshots were heard near the president's residence in the capital Port Novo.

But later on Sunday, the interior minister announced they had regained control and a government spokesperson told the AFP news agency that the president was safe.

Talon has been in power since 2016 and was due to step down next April after elections.

He has faced accusations of authoritarianism, but attempted military coups in the region have grown common, and last year Benin's government said it had rested with multiple officials for planning a takeover.

Emmanuel Akimotu, NPR News, Lagos.