Benin City, Nigeria — Former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has strongly criticized the violent abduction of his cousin, Don Pedro Obaseki, which he claims was orchestrated by individuals associated with the Bini palace. The incident has sparked outrage among community leaders and human rights advocates.
Don Pedro, a former managing director of DAAR Communications and a notable journalist, was reportedly attacked by armed men while playing football at Uwa Primary School in Benin City. Eyewitness accounts suggest he was physically assaulted and humiliated before being forcibly taken to the palace. Video footage circulating on social media shows Pedro being subjected to mistreatment and then delivered to palace officials.
In a public statement, Obaseki described the abduction as a “serious violation of human rights” and expressed deep concern over the palace’s alleged involvement. He called for a thorough investigation by security agencies, urging them to identify and prosecute those responsible for this act of violence.
“This troubling incident reflects a severe disregard for the rule of law,” Obaseki stated. “When individuals take justice into their own hands, it threatens the very fabric of our society and leads us toward chaos.”
During the incident, Pedro was accused of making disrespectful remarks about the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II. The accusations reportedly stemmed from comments he made during a speech in the UK, which some in the community interpreted as offensive.
Obaseki’s statements have resonated with human rights activists in the region. Kola Edokpayi, a prominent activist, condemned the brutal treatment of Pedro and stressed that such actions are symptomatic of a broader issue of lawlessness proliferating in the state. He called on citizens to unite against the impunity displayed by those who commit acts of violence.
The former governor further expressed disappointment at how the palace has been linked to these events, suggesting that such actions tarnish the dignity of the monarchy. “We must not allow fear and violence to dictate the terms of our community,” he added.
As Pedro has recounted his harrowing experience, he described the assault in graphic detail. He noted that armed thugs threatened him, stripped him of his clothing, and dragged him through the streets for nearly five kilometers, humiliating him before he was taken to the palace. Once there, he was reportedly beaten and forced to kneel while stripped of his dignity.
The implications of this incident are profound, as calls for justice and accountability echo through the state. Observers point out that such violent acts could have serious consequences for public safety and civil order in Edo State. Community leaders are urging all citizens and organizations to raise their voices against such injustices.
Former Senate Chief Whip Rowland Owie also condemned the attack, highlighting the need for decisive action from law enforcement. He emphasized that silence or inaction in the face of this kind of violence threatens not only the victim but the broader community.
As the situation unfolds, many in Edo State are watching closely. The demand for accountability and justice grows louder, and the hope remains that the authorities will respond effectively to restore order and uphold human rights in the community.