Benin: Private Radio Station Ransacked Amid Pre-Election Unrest

The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has expressed deep concern over the attack on Urban FM, a private radio station in Parakou, Benin, just days before the country’s presidential elections. The assault occurred in the early hours of April 6, 2021, amid widespread protests against the extension of President Patrice Talon’s term.

Following amendments to the 1990 Constitution, Talon’s mandate, which was due to end on April 5, was extended by 45 days. This decision sparked unrest across the country, with opposition-led demonstrations erupting in Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Parakou, Savè, and Tchaourou. Protesters set fire to tyres, blocked roads, and vandalized several properties, including the headquarters of a party allied with the ruling government.

Urban FM, owned by Parakou’s deputy mayor Charles Toko, was targeted by demonstrators who accused the station of being a propaganda tool for the ruling party. The rioters ransacked the premises, looted equipment, and destroyed studios, offices, and technical infrastructure.

A statement on the radio station’s Facebook page confirmed the destruction, saying, “On the night of Monday, April 5, radio URBAN FM was completely destroyed, with equipment taken, including those belonging to its digital partner channel, 2MC TV.”

Speaking to local media, the station’s promoter, Angelo Ahouanmangnan, recounted how he was alerted at dawn on April 6 about the attack. “A crowd of young rioters stormed the headquarters of Urban FM in Parakou and destroyed everything in their path: studios, control room, offices, and all the technical and computer equipment,” he said.

The attack on Urban FM underscores growing concerns over press freedom and political violence in Benin as tensions mount ahead of the elections.