African activist Kemi Seba, known for his anti-Western views, was arrested in Paris, a source confirmed Tuesday to AFP.
The 42-year-old pan-Africanist, born Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, has a history of legal issues in France. He has been previously sentenced multiple times for incitement to racial hatred.
The reason behind Seba’s arrest on Monday remains unknown, with authorities yet to provide an official explanation.
Seba, a black power activist born in France to Beninese parents, has frequently been accused of anti-Semitism. In July, he was stripped of his French nationality.
Last year, French lawmaker Thomas Gassilloud accused Seba of spreading Russian propaganda and acting in the interests of a foreign power. Gassilloud claimed Seba’s actions fueled anti-French sentiment in Africa.
Seba has publicly praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that the Russian leader has no ties to slavery or colonization.
In August, Seba received a diplomatic passport from Niger’s junta. He explained on Facebook that the document recognized his 25-year fight for African causes, often risking his life.
Seba has faced legal issues in Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Guinea over perceived offenses against their leaders.
Two of Seba’s groups, including Tribu K, were dissolved by the French justice ministry for promoting racist and anti-Semitic ideologies.
