Nigeria, Dec. 7 -- The Nigerian government has condemned Sunday's failed coup in Benin, describing it as a "direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninese people."

In a statement, Nigeria's foreign affairs ministry said, "Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace."

PREMIUM TIMES reported the coup, announced by a group of soldiers on national television, who said they had removed President Patrice Talon and dissolved government institutions.

However, the Benin presidency later released a statement, saying the coup had failed,...