After more than two years of detention under harsh conditions in the Republic of Benin, Nigerian pastor and businessman, Benjamin Egbaji, has regained his freedom following the intervention of the Federal Government.
Egbaji, a cleric from Cross River State, had been held in Cotonou on allegations of various offences, a period during which his health reportedly declined significantly. For much of his detention, he was confined in a hospital under conditions described as dehumanising before he was eventually transferred to a prison facility.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed his release in a statement issued on Thursday. The statement, signed by her media aide, Mr. Magnus Eze, attributed the breakthrough to sustained diplomatic engagement by the Nigerian government.
According to the ministry, Nigeria applied consistent diplomatic pressure on the authorities in Benin, stressing humanitarian considerations and the deteriorating health of the detainee.
These efforts, the statement noted, eventually led to Egbaji’s release. The development underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad, particularly in cases involving prolonged detention and alleged human rights concerns.
Egbaji is expected to return to Nigeria, where he will receive further medical attention and reunite with his family after his prolonged ordeal.
