Matilda Omonaiye/
South African authorities have arrested controversial pan-African activist Kemi Seba in Pretoria, setting in motion extradition proceedings to Benin, where he is wanted on allegations of “inciting rebellion” linked to a failed coup attempt.
Police confirmed that Seba, 45, was apprehended at a shopping centre in Gauteng alongside his 18-year-old son and a South African accomplice. The arrest follows an international warrant issued by Benin in December 2025 after Seba publicly backed an attempted coup that was subsequently foiled.
In a statement, South African police disclosed that preliminary investigations indicate Seba is also wanted in France and Benin over offences described as crimes against the state. Authorities further alleged that the activist and his son were aided by a South African national who was reportedly paid about R250,000 to facilitate their movement across the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe, with plans to continue onward to Europe.
Security operatives recovered mobile phones and approximately R318,000 in cash during the operation.
Born Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi in France to Beninese parents, Seba has long been a polarising figure in African political discourse. A fierce critic of French political, economic and military influence in West Africa, he has increasingly aligned himself with pro-Russian narratives, presenting Moscow as a strategic counterbalance to Western dominance in the Sahel.
His influence extended into regional politics when he was appointed adviser to General Abdourahamane Tchiani, leader of Niger’s military government, following the country’s break with Western allies and pivot toward Russia.
Seba had maintained a relatively low public profile in recent months, reportedly going underground after the failed coup in Benin.
He, his son and their alleged accomplice have been remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings, with their next court appearance scheduled for April 20.
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