Radical activist faces detention in Paris as his anti-colonial crusade intensifies, sparking debate over ties to Russia and growing tensions in West Africa.
PARIS FRANCE– Kemi Seba, a controversial pan-African activist, was arrested in Paris on Monday. The outspoken critic of Western influence in Africa, born Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, has a long history of clashes with French authorities. The exact reason for his latest arrest remains unclear.
A Radical Figure with a History of Controversy
Seba, 42, has faced multiple convictions in France for inciting racial hatred. A former leader of the disbanded anti-Semitic group, Tribu Ka, he is known for his militant black power rhetoric and strong anti-colonial stance. In July, he was stripped of his French citizenship.
Seba currently leads the Urgences panafricanistes group, which enjoys significant support on social media. His activism often targets the Financial Community of Africa (CFA franc), a currency he claims perpetuates colonialism. Over the years, his protests have led to multiple arrests and deportations across West Africa.
Burning Bridges with France
Seba made headlines earlier this year when he publicly burned his French passport in a video after authorities tried to block one of his conferences. The incident underscored his defiance against France, a country he believes continues to oppress African nations.
Recently, Seba has been praised for his vocal support of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, whom he credits for not being complicit in slavery and colonization. In August, Seba was granted a diplomatic passport by Niger’s military junta in recognition of his “25-year struggle for Africa.”
Ties to Russian Propaganda?
Seba’s activism has sparked accusations that he serves as a mouthpiece for Russian propaganda, further fueling anti-French sentiment in Africa. French lawmaker Thomas Gassilloud has publicly claimed that Seba is advancing the interests of a foreign power in his critiques of French influence on the continent.
The activist has also run into legal trouble in Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Guinea, often clashing with African leaders over his bold and often controversial statements.
As tensions between France and its former colonies in Africa continue to rise, Kemi Seba remains a polarizing figure at the center of a global geopolitical debate.
Join our Channel...