seeks repatriation of Nigerian cleric over worsening health in Benin prison
The Federal Government has raised alarm over the worsening health condition of a Nigerian national, Benjamin Egbaji, who is currently serving a jail term in the Republic of Benin.
Egbaji, a businessman and cleric from Cross River State, is said to be held under poor conditions in a hospital in Cotonou, where his health has reportedly deteriorated significantly.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze.
She explained that reports from the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou confirmed that Egbaji’s health had continued to decline and required urgent medical intervention.
According to her, the ministry has appealed to the Benin Republic authorities to release Egbaji so that he could access adequate medical treatment and complete his sentence in Nigeria.
“It is against this backdrop of solidarity and mutual goodwill that I seek Your Excellency’s kind consideration regarding the plight of a Nigerian national, Pastor Egbaji.
“He has been serving a custodial sentence in Cotonou since October 2023 for a jail term of 10 years.
“As Your Excellency may be aware, Egbaji has been in the Benin Republic for over three decades, contributing meaningfully as an entrepreneur, pastor and community leader. Regrettably, his health has deteriorated severely while in detention,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further disclosed that two independent medical experts appointed by a Beninese court had recommended Egbaji’s transfer abroad for treatment after local medical efforts failed.
“We kindly request that Pastor Egbaji be repatriated to Nigeria to serve out the remainder of his sentence in a Nigerian correctional centre in the spirit of our longstanding friendship.
“Also, in recognition of the humanitarian imperative, not being unmindful of the grievous nature of the offence he is charged with,” she stated.
She added that granting the request would reinforce the spirit of cooperation and goodwill that has long existed between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
The minister also recalled that officials of the ministry had visited Egbaji in August, alongside Benin’s Foreign Minister, Olushegun Bakari, to appeal for his transfer to Nigeria.
“This is to enable Egbaji to receive the deserved medical care and serve out his custodial term in Nigeria.
“It was worrisome considering the pace of the Benin authorities in addressing the situation and acceding to its request,” she said.
