Beninese activist Kémi Séba was arrested by French police in Paris on Monday while having lunch with a colleague, according to media reports.
Séba is a prominent critic of France’s influence in French-speaking West African countries. The reason for his visit to France remains unclear, and there have been no official statements regarding his arrest.
Recently, Séba was appointed as an advisor to Niger’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, who came to power following a military coup in July 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Niger has since cut ties with Western countries and demanded the withdrawal of French, American, and German troops.
Séba reportedly entered France using his Nigerien diplomatic passport, drawing the attention of authorities before being taken into custody.
As the founder of the activist group Urgences Panafricanistes, Séba has led anti-French protests, including burning a CFA franc note, which he described as a symbol of French colonialism. He previously held French nationality but reportedly renounced it last year, leading to its revocation. His protests have gained significant support, especially among young people in West Africa.