Nigerian Government Requests Repatriation of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji from Benin Republic Over Health Condition

The Nigerian Government has formally asked the Republic of Benin to repatriate Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian national who is currently incarcerated in Benin. The request emerges amid mounting concerns over his deteriorating health condition while serving his penalty abroad.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the plea for repatriation is based on medical assessments suggesting that Pastor Egbaji’s health has worsened since his detention in May 2023.

Pastor Egbaji, originally from Cross River State, has lived in the Benin Republic for over 30 years, engaging in business and pastoral ministry. He was arrested on May 17, 2023, on accusations of rape brought by a Beninese citizen, and later convicted in July 2024. He is serving a 10-year jail sentence.

His conviction also included fines amounting to US$3,300 payable to both the accuser and a government institute concerned with women’s affairs.

Health Concerns & Humanitarian Appeal

Multiple reports indicate that Pastor Egbaji’s health has sharply declined. He has been diagnosed with very high blood pressure (figures such as 202/138 and up to 206/128 mm Hg are cited), which medical experts warn could lead to stroke, heart attack, or other life-threatening outcomes if not addressed promptly.

In addition, there are claims that he has been restrained (chained) even when hospitalized, and that certain medical interventions have not been sufficient or appropriate.

Various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), legal advocacy groups, and religious associations in Nigeria have stepped to=web.run

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially requested the repatriation of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian cleric currently detained and facing trial in the Republic of Benin, citing his deteriorating health condition as the major reason for urgent intervention.

Government’s Official Statement

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigerian authorities confirmed that the request for Pastor Egbaji’s return is based on the critical state of his health. The government emphasized that he urgently requires medical attention that may not be adequately provided in the detention facility in Benin.

The ministry noted that the Federal Government is making diplomatic efforts to ensure his safety and secure his return to Nigeria for proper medical treatment. Officials have also stated that Nigeria remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of all its citizens abroad, regardless of their legal circumstances.

Who Is Pastor Benjamin Egbaji?

Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian national from Cross River State, has reportedly lived in the Republic of Benin for several years as a Christian minister. He was arrested on allegations that led to his detention and ongoing legal proceedings. However, recent reports indicate that his medical condition has worsened, prompting humanitarian concerns from the Nigerian government.

Health and Humanitarian Concerns

According to information gathered, Pastor Egbaji is battling severe health challenges and is in need of immediate medical intervention. His family and church members have raised alarms over his condition, urging the Nigerian government to intervene swiftly.

Human rights activists have also joined in the call for his release, emphasizing that medical rights must be respected even for individuals under detention. The demand for repatriation has been further supported by civil society organizations advocating for humane treatment of detainees.

Diplomatic Channels and Next Steps

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly engaged with the Beninese authorities through diplomatic correspondence, requesting that the detained cleric be allowed to return home for medical treatment. The ministry expressed hope that the Republic of Benin will act on humanitarian grounds and cooperate in facilitating the process in accordance with international law and bilateral relations between both nations.

Broader Implications

This case underscores the importance of international cooperation in upholding human rights and ensuring the well-being of foreign nationals in detention. It also highlights the Nigerian government’s increasing responsiveness to the plight of its citizens abroad, especially those facing health crises while in custody.