Kemi Seba, a prominent Pan-African and pro-Russian activist, has applied for political asylum in South Africa while detained.
Kemi Seba was arrested a week ago in Pretoria and is wanted in Benin over alleged incitement to rebellion.
Appearing briefly in a Pretoria court, he stood alongside his 18-year-old son and a South African co-accused.
His lawyer said an asylum application has been filed, while authorities pursue charges of illegal immigration against him.
Seba allegedly overstayed his South African visa after expiry, complicating his legal status and passport-related restrictions.
Prosecutors requested a postponement to verify passport authenticity, residency status, and allegations of possible money laundering activities.
He holds a diplomatic passport issued by Niger’s ruling junta, which seized power after the 2023 coup.
Benin issued an international arrest warrant on December 12 after Seba backed a failed coup attempt.
His lawyer argues extradition has not been formally presented, claiming authorities are delaying procedures to build the case.
South African police say he was arrested in a sting operation involving over 315,000 rand and planned travel to Zimbabwe.
He remains isolated in custody, classified as high-risk, with lawyers reportedly denied access to meet him in prison.
He has millions of followers and is known for criticizing France while increasingly aligning himself with Russian geopolitical narratives.
He has faced convictions in France, lost nationality in 2024, and been expelled from several West African states.