The Leadwell Africa Global Initiative, in collaboration with the Nigeria Clerics Council of Bishops and Imams, organized a peaceful protest at the Embassy of Benin Republic in Abuja. They are demanding the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian cleric who has been detained in Benin Republic without trial for over a year.
Pastor Egbaji, a native of Cross River State, oversees the church Église De Miracle Et Action Du Saint Esprit in Benin. His prolonged detention followed an accusation of rape by Pede Victoire, a Beninese citizen.
Protesters carried placards with various inscriptions condemning the mistreatment of Nigerians in Benin. They expressed growing frustration over such ill-treatment, highlighting that Pastor Egbaji remains shackled even while hospitalized.
Speaking at the Embassy, Archbishop Dr. Bony L. Sunny, the Convener of Leadwell Africa Global Initiative, addressed journalists. He congratulated President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic on his election and appealed for the release of Pastor Egbaji.
Archbishop Sunny stated, “I write this letter of appeal on behalf of our Nigerian brother in the Lord, Pastor Emmanuel Egbaji, who has been arrested and prosecuted maliciously, detained for over a year in your country.”
The group emphasized that Pastor Egbaji is a Nigerian citizen engaged in lawful business activities in Benin, including real estate and pastoral ministry. They claimed his prosperity and success in these ventures led to jealousy and envy from some Beninese associates, resulting in false accusations of rape.
On December 16, 2021, Pastor Egbaji reported these acts of blackmail and defamation to the police in Abonmey-Calavi, filing a formal complaint against his business partners. However, on May 17, 2023, he was arrested by Benin police on the same false allegations during a court proceeding and taken to another court, COUR De Repression Des Infraction Economique Et Du Terrorisme (CRIET), where he was remanded in prison.
Archbishop Sunny lamented that Pastor Egbaji’s health has deteriorated significantly during his 12-month detention. His blood pressure has dangerously spiked, raising concerns about the risk of stroke or heart attack. Despite attempts to secure bail on medical or compassionate grounds, they have been unsuccessful.
The group called for presidential and diplomatic intervention from the Government of Benin Republic to release Pastor Egbaji for urgent medical treatment. They stressed the need for a fair hearing and trial, urging the authorities to ensure justice and compassion in handling his case.
