Following the detention of Robert Gilles Stellio Capo Chichi, widely known as Kemi Seba, in Pretoria, the Beninese authorities have officially addressed the situation. During the Council of Ministers session on April 22, 2026, government spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji displayed a composed yet resolute stance, remarking that the situation was unfolding as it should.
Core allegations from the Beninese state
Moving beyond diplomatic formalities, the administration has specified the reasons behind the request for the activist’s return. The Beninese authorities primarily accuse Kemi Seba of conducting subversive activities that jeopardize the stability of national institutions. Furthermore, his recurring public statements are viewed as incitements to civil unrest and disruptions of public order.
The state also suspects the activist of maintaining ties with external organizations intent on destabilizing the country’s security framework. His direct criticisms of state authority are interpreted as a calculated effort to undermine national unity and cohesion.
Formal extradition process underway
Benin is taking a proactive role in the matter. Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji confirmed that both judicial and diplomatic channels are fully engaged in securing Seba’s extradition. The spokesperson emphasized that the government is waiting for international legal procedures to conclude so the individual can be held accountable for his actions and rhetoric before a Beninese court.
For the leadership in Porto-Novo, the objective is straightforward: to bring Kemi Seba back to his home country to face the serious allegations regarding national security and internal stability. This legal confrontation between the activist and the state has now reached a critical turning point.
