The arrest of Beninese journalist and whistleblower Comlan Hugues Sossoukpè in Ivory Coast has sparked widespread alarm and calls for accountability.
In a press release issued from Paris on July 13, 2025, his lawyers publicly voiced deep concerns over his detention and the opaque circumstances surrounding his transfer to Benin.
Sossoukpè, who has lived in exile in Lomé, Togo, since 2019 with refugee status under the 1951 Geneva Convention, was invited by the Ivorian Ministry of Digital Transition to participate in the Ivoire Tech Forum.
Arriving in Abidjan on July 8, he was welcomed officially in his capacity as Director of Publication of Journal Olofofo.
However, just days later, on July 11, reports emerged that Ivorian authorities had arrested him and handed him over to Beninese officials.
He is currently held in the civil prison of Ouidah, Benin, reportedly under a detention warrant from the Special Prosecutor at the Court for the Suppression of Economic Offences and Terrorism (CRIET).
The lawyers expressed serious unease over the “persistent silence” from both Beninese and Ivorian governments, which has left many questions unanswered about Sossoukpè’s physical safety and legal rights.
They emphasize that as a recognized refugee, any extradition or detention must respect international protections and due process—protections that appear to have been ignored.
“Our major concerns include the risk of violations of Mr. Sossoukpè’s fundamental rights, including his right to a fair trial, security, and dignity,” the press release states.
The legal team calls for immediate transparency, “effective access to counsel, family, and human rights organisations,” and “absolute respect for his rights under national constitutions and international law.”
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the lawyers accuse the Ivorian state of failing its “essential duty” to protect a person under international asylum and warn that any irregular arrest or detention “cannot be considered lawful” and those responsible “will have to answer before national and international courts.”
The legal defense remains fully mobilized in pursuit of justice, freedom of expression, and adherence to the rule of law in this high-profile case. The lawyers have urged authorities to act responsibly and humanely, while urging the international community to remain vigilant.
For inquiries, contact Mr. Charlemagne DAGBEDJI, Attorney at Law, Paris Bar at charlemagne@dagbedji-avocat.fr or (+33) 7 59 59 28 28.
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