The Pastor’s Release follows sustained diplomatic intervention over health concerns
Abuja — The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully secured the release of a Nigerian pastor who had been imprisoned in the Republic of Benin for more than two years over allegations of rape, following sustained diplomatic engagements between both countries.
The pastor, Benjamin Egbaji, was freed after the President of Benin Republic, Patrice Talon, granted him a presidential pardon, bringing an end to his prolonged detention which had attracted widespread concern from Nigerians at home and abroad.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed the development on Thursday, describing the release as a major diplomatic breakthrough achieved on humanitarian grounds.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the pardon was formally gazetted on December 17, 2025, following months of intense diplomatic pressure and negotiations by Nigerian officials seeking clemency for the detained pastor due to his deteriorating health condition.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu revealed that the Nigerian government had explored multiple diplomatic options, including requests for his transfer to Nigeria to serve any remaining sentence or to receive urgent medical care.
She noted that the intervention aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foreign policy agenda, which prioritizes the protection and welfare of Nigerians living abroad
Pastor Egbaji’s case gained national and international attention after images emerged showing him chained to a hospital bed in Cotonou, sparking outrage and calls for urgent government intervention.
Reports indicated that he had been held under harsh conditions despite suffering serious health challenges, prompting human rights advocates and diaspora groups to intensify pressure on Nigerian authorities to act swiftly.
Following his release, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that she spoke with the pastor by phone, stating that he was in high spirits but required comprehensive medical attention after years of incarceration.
Arrangements are reportedly underway to ensure his safe return to Nigeria and access to proper medical care
The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Benin Republic commended the Nigerian government for what it described as “effective and people-centered diplomacy,” urging continued support for Nigerians facing legal challenges abroad.
Analysts say the release underscores Nigeria’s renewed commitment to citizen diplomacy, particularly in cases involving human rights, welfare, and the treatment of Nigerians outside the country.
