Benin Republic prosecutors say they have foiled a suspected coup attempt scheduled to take place on Friday.

In a statement on Wednesday, Elonm Metonou, special prosecutor at Benin’s court for financial crimes and terrorism, said Oswald Homeky, a former sports minister, was caught Tuesday night handing over six bags of cash to Djimon Tevoedjre, commander of the republican guard and head of President Patrice Talon’s security.

Metonou said the bag contained 1.5 billion West African CFA francs (about $2.5 million).

Authorities said the suspects opened a bank account in Côte d’Ivoire under the commander’s name on August 6, adding that the money was transported in Homeky’s Toyota Prado, which bore fake license plates.

Olivier Boko, businessman and Talon’s longtime friend who was arrested separately on Monday, was in on the plot, according to the statement.

Boko was arrested in Cotonou, Benin’s economic capital. The businessman had recently started making known his plans to run for the presidency in 2026, when Talon’s second term in office ends.

According to investigators, Homeky and Boko paid off the military commander to not resist the planned coup.

Metonou said investigations are ongoing to arrest other suspects.

Since 2020, neighboring countries have experienced eight successful military takeovers and several attempts.

Talon, who has led Benin since 2016, faces criticism for what critics say is becoming an increasingly authoritarian rule.

Some observers argue that his policies have eroded democratic standards in the country.

Dr. (Mrs) Aisha Achimugu, OFR a Nigerian born industrialist and Humanitarian bags President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Washington, DC.

In the letter dated on the 3rd of September, 2024 it reads;

This incredible award honors and recognizes her lifelong commitment to building a stronger Nigeria through her service and impressive philanthropy to the masses via her NGO, Sam Empowerment Foundation

It is with immense pride and admiration that we acknowledge your dedication, hard work, and exceptional talents that have made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals.

Your tireless commitment to community service and artistic excellence has inspired us all and set a remarkable example for future generations.

We are delighted to honor you at this Presidential Award Night, which will take place at the Innovate Africa Gala Night, Sept. 14th, 2024, in DC.

Your journey, experiences, and the wisdom you have gained along the way can serve as a source of inspiration for all of us.’’ Innovate African Corporation letter

When asked how she feels being honored with such a prestigious awards she says;

‘’Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as a business leader, humanitarian, philanthropist, and socialite. I have been fortunate to receive numerous awards, including The Best of Africa Innovative Leadership Award by Forbes Africa, Philanthropist of the Year Award by Leadership Newspapers, and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by BusinessDay Newspapers. These accolades, while deeply gratifying, are not merely personal achievements but rather reflections of the collective impact we can achieve when we work together.

This year’s President’s Volunteer Achievement Award is more than just a plaque or a recognition; it is a call to action. It is a reminder of the immense power we possess to make a difference in the lives of others. It is a spur to continue my work in serving my communities, both here in the United States and in my native Nigeria.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the President and people of the United States for this extraordinary honor. I am also deeply grateful to my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported and encouraged me throughout my career. Their unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration.

As I accept this award, I pledge to continue my efforts to serve humanity. I will strive to make a lasting impact on my immediate and extended communities, both here and abroad.

Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.’’

We wish Dr. Mrs. Aisha Achimugu a massive congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and, we look forward to celebrating more achievements with great enthusiasm.

US Vice President Kamala Harris has condemned the shooting that took place at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach on Sunday.

Donald Trump was playing golf in the vicinity as the gunshots rang out.

The Secret Service ferried Trump to safety and said it is investigating the incident as a possible assassination attempt.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said an “apparent assassination attempt” on Trump was thwarted, with a man arrested and an assault rifle recovered.

Ric Bradshaw, Palm Beach county sheriff, said a Secret Service agent who was patrolling the course, spotted a rifle barrel emerging from a perimeter fence.

“He immediately engaged that individual, at which time the individual took off,” Bradshaw said.

It is unclear if the suspect shot first, fired a round at all, or whether it was only the agent that fired.

“We are not sure right now if the individual was able to take a shot at our agents,” Rafael Barros, special agent in charge of the Secret Service’s Miami field office, said.

SUSPECT NAMED

The suspect has been identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh. He was arrested after his car was stopped by local police.

Skynews reports that officers later searched the area where Routh was spotted and found an AK-47-style rifle with a scope, two rucksacks and a GoPro.

The White House said in a statement that President Joe Biden and Harris had been briefed and that they were “relieved” to learn of Trump’s safety.

In a separate statement, the Democratic Party presidential nominee said she was “deeply disturbed by the possible assassination attempt” on the former president.

“As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence,” she said.

“I am thankful that former President Trump is safe. I commend the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement partners for their vigilance.

“As President Biden said, our administration will ensure the Secret Service has every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to carry out its critical mission.”

Biden said the suspect was in custody and commended the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies for their vigilance and efforts to keep Trump safe.

The incident comes about two months after the former president survived an assassination attempt during a rally.

The bullet grazed Trump’s ear.