The Nigerian government has secured the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a cleric and businessman from Cross River State, who had spent more than two years in detention in the Republic of Benin. His freedom was achieved through a presidential pardon granted by Benin’s President Patrice Talon on 17 December 2025, which was subsequently gazetted and led to Egbaji’s release on 8 January 2026.
Egbaji was initially detained on multiple charges and held in a hospital in Cotonou because of his poor health. As his condition worsened, he was transferred to prison. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu‑Ojukwu, engaged in sustained diplomatic efforts to secure his release, including a personal visit to the hospitalized pastor in August 2025. Public outrage erupted after a photograph of Egbaji chained to a hospital bed spread widely on social media, prompting urgent intervention by Nigerian authorities. The minister’s office pursued every available channel to obtain his release and ensure proper medical care.
Odumegwu‑Ojukwu credited the breakthrough to President Bola Tinubu’s foreign‑policy stance, which emphasizes the protection of Nigerians abroad under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The Ministry formally appealed to Beninese authorities for Egbaji to receive adequate treatment and, if necessary, to serve the remainder of his sentence in Nigeria, citing humanitarian concerns and the long‑standing cordial relationship between the two countries. His deteriorating health during incarceration made the appeal especially urgent.
The release is expected to reinforce cooperation and brotherhood between Nigeria and Benin. Alhaji Mohammad Munir, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, praised the minister’s intervention and dedication to the welfare of Nigerians overseas. The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its citizens worldwide. Since his release, the minister has spoken with Egbaji, who is reported to be in good spirits but still requires comprehensive medical attention to fully recover from his ordeal.
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