Why Did Nigeria Intervene in Benin Republic? How Diplomatic Pressure Secured the Release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji Jailed for Alleged Rape After Two Years in Detention

Why did the Nigerian government step in to secure the release of a pastor imprisoned abroad, and what role did diplomacy and humanitarian concerns play in his freedom?

The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian cleric and businessman from Cross River State who had been detained in the Republic of Benin for more than two years over alleged rape. His freedom, announced on January 8, 2026, followed a presidential pardon granted by Benin’s President, Patrice Talon, after sustained diplomatic intervention by Nigerian authorities.

According to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Egbaji was released after what officials described as prolonged detention under “dehumanising conditions.” The amnesty that secured his freedom was formally gazetted on December 17, 2025, and took effect following high-level engagements between both governments.

Official statements revealed that Egbaji had initially been held in a hospital in Cotonou before being transferred to prison as his health deteriorated. His case attracted widespread attention after a photograph showing him chained to a hospital bed circulated on social media, sparking public outrage and urgent calls for intervention.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that her office maintained consistent diplomatic pressure, including a personal visit to the detained pastor while he was hospitalised in August 2025. She described the release as the outcome of “determined diplomatic action,” adding that Nigeria’s foreign policy places the welfare of its citizens abroad at the centre of international engagement.

“This release is the result of consistent and determined diplomatic action. We were deeply concerned by his condition and the circumstances of his detention,” the minister said, noting that although Egbaji is in high spirits, he requires extensive medical care after his prolonged incarceration.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had earlier appealed to Beninese authorities to free the pastor on humanitarian grounds or allow him to serve any remaining sentence in Nigeria. The request followed a joint visit by Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Benin’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, during which Nigeria emphasized both Egbaji’s failing health and the long-standing diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In official correspondence, Nigerian authorities cited the humanitarian imperative, stating that the cleric’s health had “deteriorated severely while in detention.” Ultimately, the Beninese government granted a presidential pardon, bringing an end to his imprisonment.

The development raises critical questions:
Was Egbaji’s release driven purely by humanitarian concerns?
How much influence did diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Benin Republic play?
And what does this case reveal about the treatment of foreign detainees and the protection of citizens abroad?

While the allegations that led to his imprisonment remain a sensitive issue, the Nigerian government has framed the intervention as a matter of human rights, medical necessity, and diplomatic responsibility. The case has since become a reference point in discussions on how far governments should go to protect nationals facing detention overseas.

Gernot Rohr Slams CAF Over VAR Failure After Benin Republic Denied Clear Penalty in AFCON 2025 Loss to DR Congo

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has strongly criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following a VAR failure that denied Benin Republic a potential penalty during their 1–0 defeat to DR Congo at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Rohr accused CAF of poor officiating, technical incompetence and unfair treatment of smaller nations after VAR went offline for over 15 minutes when a suspected handball occurred. The incident has sparked outrage, with Benin reportedly submitting an official petition to CAF amid growing concerns over refereeing standards and tournament organisation.

#AFCON2025 #GernotRohr #CAFControversy

President Talon Explains How Benin Republic Foiled December 7 Coup Attempt

President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic provided a detailed account of the December 7 coup attempt, describing it as an isolated attack by a few rogue soldiers rather than a full-scale mutiny. Speaking at a press conference, Talon praised the loyalty and professionalism of the National Guard and the army, who quickly contained the attackers and prevented mass casualties. He highlighted the careful measures taken, including targeted strikes and negotiations, to neutralize the threat without harming innocent personnel. Talon also addressed foreign support, noting consultation with Nigerian forces, and assured that measures would be implemented to prevent future threats, emphasizing that marginal elements, not systemic political issues, drove the incident.

Benin Republic Issues Arrest Warrants After Foiled Coup, Seeks Regional Cooperation to Capture Fleeing Leader Col. Pascal Tigri

The Benin Republic government has issued arrest warrants for suspects involved in a failed coup attempt, identifying Colonel Pascal Tigri as the principal figure behind the plot. President Patrice Talon disclosed that several conspirators fled across international borders following military operations launched to quell the takeover, prompting Benin to seek regional cooperation for their arrest and extradition. Talon confirmed that airstrikes were conducted against some plotters after the incident, while stressing that all those responsible must be held accountable under the law to safeguard regional security and constitutional order.

Benin Republic Jails About 30 Suspects, Mostly Soldiers, Over Foiled Coup Attempt Against President Patrice Talon

Authorities in the Republic of Benin have remanded about 30 suspects—most of them soldiers—in custody following a failed coup attempt against President Patrice Talon earlier this month. The suspects were arraigned before the Court for the Repression of Economic Crimes and Terrorism (CRIET) in Cotonou and ordered into pre-trial detention after hours of interrogation. They face serious charges including treason, murder, and endangering state security. The attempted coup briefly saw mutinous soldiers announce Talon’s removal on national television before loyalist forces, reportedly backed by Nigerian Air Force and French special forces, swiftly restored order. Several casualties were recorded, while the alleged coup leader, Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, remains on the run amid heightened political tensions in the country.

Soyinka Slams ‘Private Battalion’ Escorting Tinubu’s Son, Warns of Dangerous Misuse of Security Forces

Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka has sparked nationwide debate after criticising the massive security convoy assigned to President Tinubu’s son, Seyi, describing it as large enough to “crush” the recent coup attempt in Benin Republic. Speaking at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism Awards in Lagos, he condemned the concentration of heavily armed operatives around one individual while Nigeria battles widespread insecurity. Soyinka warned that the misallocation of security resources highlights distorted national priorities and threatens public safety. He also criticised Nigeria’s involvement in Benin’s failed coup, warned about the dangers of misinformation, and condemned ongoing demolitions in Lagos. As public scrutiny intensifies, the Presidency has yet to respond.

Falana Warns Nigeria Risks Military Coup Without Political Pluralism, Open Civic Space

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has warned that Nigeria must urgently embrace political pluralism and expand civic freedoms to avoid the growing wave of military coups destabilising West Africa. Speaking on Channels TV, Falana said widespread poverty, insecurity, shrinking civic space, and the criminalisation of dissent are fueling public anger across the region. He criticised INEC for restricting the registration of ideological political parties and warned that Nigeria risks sliding toward a one-party state. Citing the recent failed coup in Benin Republic, Falana stressed that suppressing opposition, jailing critics, or limiting political space undermines democracy and increases instability.

News flash

Senate approves president Tinubu’s request to deploy Nigerian troops to Benin republic for peace mission in line with provisions of section 5 part 2 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria.

The expeditious approval according to the president of the senate Godswill Akpabio is to ensure peace and stability and to avoid humanitarian crisis in the sub region.

Senate believes the action is a good step in the right direction

Aisha Yesufu Condemns Tinubu’s Troop Deployment to Benin, Warns of Rising Executive Overreach

Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu criticizes President Bola Tinubu for deploying Nigerian troops to Benin Republic without prior National Assembly approval, calling it a constitutional breach and a threat to democracy. She warns that such unilateral actions weaken federal institutions, risk authoritarianism, and endanger national sovereignty. Yesufu urges lawmakers to assert their authority and prevent further erosion of Nigeria’s democratic framework following the failed coup in Benin.

#AishaYesufu

#Tinubu

#BeninCoup

NEWS FLASH

PRESIDENT TINUBU SEEKS SENATE CONSENT ON TROOPS DEPLOYMENT TO BENIN REPUBLIC

President Bola Tinubu this Tuesday transmitted to the senate a request seeking its consent to deploy Nigerian troops on peace mission to Benin Republic.

In the communication the President explained that the deployment is to provide support in the country as requested by President Patrice Talon, following the recent failed coup attempt.

The deployment is in line with the protocol of the regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

It is also in tandem with section 30 sub 5 of Nigeria's constitution in consultation with Nigeria Defence Council.

The request has been referred to the committee of the whole for immediate consideration.

Nigeria had earlier provided air intervention following the unconstitutional breach in Benin.

Tinubu’s Benin Republic Intervention Is Unconstitutional and Impeachable — Lawyer Marshal Abubakar

Human rights lawyer Marshal Abubakar has declared President Bola Tinubu’s deployment of Nigerian troops to Benin Republic after the December 7 coup an impeachable offence, arguing it violates Section 5(4)(b) of the 1999 Constitution. He said the President lacks the power to send armed forces on combat duty outside Nigeria without prior approval from the National Assembly, regardless of ECOWAS protocols. Abubakar stressed that emergency military action is only lawful when Nigeria itself faces imminent threat — not when intervening to defend another country. He also warned that ECOWAS treaties cannot supersede the Nigerian Constitution.
Beyond the legal infractions, Abubakar expressed concern over rising coups across West Africa, linking them to corruption, weak institutions, insecurity, and leadership failures. He urged African leaders to restore public trust, strengthen democratic systems, and address governance collapse to prevent further military takeovers.


#BeninIntervention

#TinubuAdministration

#ConstitutionalViolation

Dalung Lauds Tinubu’s Benin Airstrike but Questions Failure to Tackle Insecurity in Nigeria

Former minister Solomon Dalung has praised President Bola Tinubu for Nigeria’s swift military intervention in Benin Republic, describing the airstrike against coup plotters as decisive and effective. However, he criticised the government for failing to apply the same urgency to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. Dalung questioned why operations against terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers at home lack the coordination displayed in Benin, citing unanswered attacks such as the killing of Brig. Gen. Musa Uba and mass school kidnappings. He warned that Nigeria’s inability to protect its citizens fuels international calls — including past remarks by Donald Trump — for external intervention. Dalung urged Tinubu to deploy equal military strength to Sambisa, Niger, Zamfara, Plateau, and Kaduna, insisting that national strength must be proven within Nigeria’s borders.


#NigeriaSecurity

#TinubuAdministration

#SolomonDalung

Use Benin-Style Military Force Against Terrorists in Nigeria, Adeyanju Urges Tinubu

Human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has called on President Bola Tinubu to apply the same decisive military strength used in stopping the failed coup in Benin Republic to crush terrorist groups operating across Nigeria. Praising Nigeria’s swift and coordinated intervention in Benin — involving Air Force jets and ground operations — Adeyanju said the same firmness is urgently needed to tackle terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism within the country. He added that Nigeria’s regional leadership means little if citizens at home continue to suffer relentless attacks, especially in the North-West, North-East and North-Central regions.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

President Tinubu commends Nigeria's Armed Forces for protecting democracy in Benin Republic

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the gallantry of Nigeria's military on Sunday for responding swiftly to the request by the Government of Benin Republic to save its 35-year-old democracy from coup plotters who struck at dawn today.

Acting on two separate requests from the Government of Benin, President Tinubu first ordered Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to enter the country and take over the airspace to help dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp where they had regrouped.

The Republic of Benin, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a Note Verbal, requested immediate Nigerian air support "in view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation and to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population."

In the second request, the authorities in Benin requested the deployment of Nigerian Air Force assets within Beninoise airspace for surveillance and rapid intervention operations under Benin-led coordination.

The Benin government also requested Nigerian ground forces, "strictly for missions approved by the Beninese Command authority in support of the protection of constitutional institutions and the containment of armed Groups."

Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, said all the requests have been fulfilled, with Nigerian ground forces now in Benin.

"Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu," he said.

Constitutional order was upended in the Republic of Benin, Nigeria's neighbour, when some soldiers led by Colonel Pascal Tigri announced a coup on Sunday morning. The putschists seized the National TV and claimed they had toppled President Patrice Talon and suspended all democratic institutions.

It took some hours before the government's loyal forces, assisted by Nigeria, took control and flushed out the coup plotters from the National TV.

In his remarks after the restoration of the democratic and constitutional order, President Tinubu saluted the Nigerian armed forces for standing firm as a protector and defender of democracy.

“Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government. Our armed forces acted within the ambit of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin."

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President

(Information and Strategy)

December 7, 2025

Explosions Rock Tignon Barracks as Benin Coup Plotters Attempt Escape After Failed Takeover

Heavy explosions and gunfire erupted at Tignon Barracks near Cotonou as soldiers involved in Benin Republic’s failed coup attempt allegedly barricaded themselves inside the facility while trying to evade arrest. Led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, the mutineers briefly seized national television at dawn, announcing the suspension of the constitution before loyalist forces regained control. Reports indicate that several plotters shed their uniforms and fled in civilian clothes, while Tigri’s whereabouts remain unknown. Witnesses also observed unidentified aircraft arriving from Nigeria and Ivory Coast. ECOWAS and the African Union have condemned the attempted coup, as uncertainty and heightened security continue across Cotonou.

Nigeria Withdraws Fighter Jets as order is restored in Benin Republic After Failed Coup

Nigeria has recalled the fighter aircraft deployed to Benin Republic after authorities confirmed that Sunday’s abrupt coup attempt had been contained and the situation stabilised. The jets, sent from Lagos for aerial surveillance, were ordered back after intelligence showed that loyalist forces had regained control of Cotonou and that Nigeria faced no immediate security risk.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported on X that the attempted takeover of President Patrice Talon’s government was swiftly foiled. The crisis began when mutineers attacked the president’s residence in the early hours. Their assault was repelled, prompting them to storm the national broadcaster, ORTB, where they attempted to seize the state signal. Benin’s security forces responded rapidly.

National Guard units surrounded the ORTB headquarters and cut off escape routes as they moved to isolate the rebels. “The situation is under control. The National Guard has everything surrounded,” a senior security official said. Local media, including 24 Hours in Benin, reported that some mutineers were still barricaded inside the TV station on Sunday evening, with negotiations underway for a peaceful surrender.

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed that the coup attempt had been thwarted after soldiers briefly appeared on state TV claiming to remove President Talon, close borders, and suspend political parties. The presidency also reassured the public that Talon was safe, saying the regular army was steadily restoring order.

The coup plotters, identifying as the Military Committee for Refoundation and reportedly led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, had declared him “chairman of the military re-establishment committee” during their brief broadcast. West Africa continues to see a troubling rise in coups, raising fresh concerns about the region’s democratic stability.

JUST IN:

Coup in Benin Republic. They announced on Sunday the overthrow of President Patrice Talon, who has beenn in power since 2016.

A group of soldiers have appeared on the Country’s state TV announcing the dissolution of the government in an apparent coup in the West Africa nation.

Nigeria’s Waning Influence Blamed for Rising Coups in West Africa — Activist Nwapa

Human rights advocate Francis Nwapa has linked the recent military coup in Benin Republic to Nigeria’s declining leadership role and governance failures in West Africa. Responding to reports that soldiers led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri tried to remove President Patrice Talon and seized national institutions, Nwapa argued that Nigeria’s inability to provide strong democratic leadership, economic stability, and respect for human rights has weakened its regional credibility.

Nwapa said Nigeria once shaped stability across Africa but has now lost the moral authority needed to discourage military takeovers. He noted that frustrations with Nigeria’s economic decline, especially the weakened naira, are felt across neighbouring countries, citing interactions with traders from Togo and Benin during his 2025 visit to Ghana. The activist warned that unless Nigeria’s political elites urgently improve governance, the region could face more instability and internal unrest.

Nigeria Recalls Fighter Jet as Benin Regains Stability After Failed Coup Attempt

Nigeria has withdrawn the fighter jet it deployed to the Benin Republic after authorities confirmed that the attempted coup against President Patrice Talon had been foiled and stability restored. The aircraft, initially sent from Lagos for surveillance and regional security monitoring, was ordered back following intelligence updates that loyalist forces had regained full control of Cotonou.

The coup attempt began early Sunday when mutineers attacked the presidential residence before seizing the national TV station, ORTB, in an effort to broadcast their takeover. Benin’s National Guard swiftly surrounded the rebels, securing key installations and confirming President Talon’s safety. Although some mutineers reportedly barricaded themselves inside the ORTB compound, negotiations were ongoing as order gradually returned. Authorities identified Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as the leader of the failed putsch.

Attempted military coup reportedly fails in Benin Republic— President Tinubu’s aide, Onanuga