The extradition case involving pan-African activist Kemi Seba has been delayed once again in South Africa after a court postponed proceedings pending the formal submission of Benin’s extradition request. The hearing, scheduled for July 14, was expected to mark the beginning of the legal examination of Benin’s request. However, South African authorities confirmed that the official extradition documents had only recently been formally lodged at South Africa’s embassy in Cotonou. As a result, Kemi Seba will remain in custody until further notice.
Benin submits extensive extradition file
According to sources familiar with the case, Benin’s extradition request consists of several hundred pages detailing the allegations against the activist, including the dates, locations and circumstances of the alleged offences. Two arrest warrants were reportedly issued against Kemi Seba in 2025, the first in June and the second in December.
Beninese authorities accuse him of publicly supporting the failed coup attempt of December 7, 2025, citing videos circulated on social media that they say encouraged the plotters. He also faces allegations including incitement to hatred, violence and rebellion, money laundering, and cyber harassment. It remains unclear whether the extradition file contains all the evidence supporting those accusations, as the process has been conducted confidentially.
Fair trial concerns likely to dominate proceedings
Another key issue expected to feature in the extradition proceedings is whether Kemi Seba would receive a fair trial if returned to Benin. The activist has repeatedly criticized Benin’s judicial institutions, while his legal team argues that the extradition request is politically motivated. Legal experts believe the South African courts could take several months to decide on the case.
Separate immigration investigation continues
Alongside the extradition proceedings, South African authorities are continuing a separate investigation into alleged immigration offences. The investigation concerns Kemi Seba, his 18-year-old son Khonsou, and their alleged attempt to leave South Africa illegally. Prosecutors are also reportedly seeking information from cryptocurrency platforms as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Kemi Seba, his son and their alleged accomplice, South African white supremacist François van der Merwe, remain in custody nearly three months after their arrest in April. Their previous applications for bail were rejected after the court ruled there was a significant risk that they could flee. While preparing to challenge Benin’s extradition request, Kemi Seba’s lawyers are also seeking permission for his son to return to France independently of the proceedings.
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