Odumegwu-Ojukwu Visits Nigerian Pastor Jailed In Benin, Reassures Of Govt Support
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has paid a compassionate visit to Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, a Nigerian national imprisoned in the Republic of Benin for over two years.
Pastor Egbaji, convicted of rape in 2024 and sentenced to 10 years in prison, has been battling ill health and is currently receiving treatment at the National Teaching Hospital in Cotonou.
His case, now at the appeal stage, has drawn attention for its controversial background and prolonged legal complications.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who met Egbaji on Saturday, 2 August, assured him that Nigeria had not abandoned him.
“President Tinubu is aware of your case. Nigeria has not forgotten you. We are committed to ensuring you get justice,” she said, reiterating the government’s citizen diplomacy stance under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Visibly emotional, Egbaji broke down in tears during the visit, expressing deep concern over his health and prolonged detention.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Benin commended the minister’s visit, describing it as a strong show of care and responsibility for Nigerians abroad.
Egbaji, originally from Cross River State, has lived in Benin for over 30 years, running a real estate business and a ministry. His case continues to raise questions around diplomatic protection for Nigerians abroad.
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