South African Trial Uncovers Russian-Backed Network Behind Benin Coup Attempt

During an ongoing extradition trial in South Africa, prosecutors claim Russian actors funded a plan to help pro-Russian influencer Kemi Seba flee Benin after the December coup attempt led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri. Seba was seized with over $18,000, which authorities say was meant for Afrikaner white-nationalist leader Francois van der Merwe to facilitate transport of Seba and his 18-year-old son through Zimbabwe to Europe for terror operations.

Seba, stripped of French citizenship and later given a diplomatic passport by Niger, has praised Russia on his social platforms and posted supportive messages about the Benin mutiny. His legal team rejects the accusations and has filed an asylum request, fearing persecution if returned to Benin. The case sheds light on a coordinated diaspora network that amplifies pro-Russian narratives across the Sahel, linking influencers, white-nationalist groups, and alleged Russian funding to destabilize African governments.