LIBREVILLE, Gabon – The military says it has seized power in oil-rich Gabon, where the ailing leader’s family has ruled for 50 years.

Soldiers in the west African country of Gabon say they launched a coup “to restore democracy,” the BBC reported.

They took control of the national radio station in the early hours of Monday to read a short statement announcing a “National Restoration Council”.

Tanks and armed vehicles can be seen on the streets of the former French colony’s capital, Libreville.

President Ali Bongo took over power in 2009. He reportedly suffered a stroke in October and received treatment in Morocco.

Bongo sought to put an end to the rumours about his health with a New Year message in which he said he was feeling fine.

Soldiers said they had been disappointed by the message, calling it “a pitiful sight” and a “relentless attempt to cling onto power.”