By Obinna Uballa
Godwin Obaseki, the immediate past governor of Edo State has strongly condemned the attack on his cousin, Don Pedro Obaseki, describing it as a grave violation of human rights and a reckless disregard for the rule of law.
The New Diplomat had reported that suspected thugs reportedly attacked and stripped Don Pedro, a media consultant and Chief Executive Officer of Hosamudia Farm, on Sunday in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
The New Diplomat had also reported that human rights groups and activists, including Amnesty International, Omoyele Sowore, Frank Tietie, among others, have condemned the assault, while calling for accountability.
Pedro Obaseki, a former Managing Director of DAAR Communications, was assaulted at Uwa Primary School, where he had gone to play football. He was reportedly beaten, forcefully taken away, and partially stripped during the incident.
In an interview on AIT after the incident, Pedro suggested that the attack may have been linked to comments he made at the former governor’s meet-and-greet in Europe, which some interpreted as critical of the Benin Monarchy.
A viral video circulating online showed Pedro Obaseki kneeling half-naked at the Oba Palace gate, while those dragging him told palace guards that he was an “Oghion Oba” (enemy of the Oba), forcing him to kneel.
Some palace chiefs reportedly addressed the attackers in the Bini language, warning that the Oba was en route to the Holy Arousa Church for a Thanksgiving service marking the end of the Igue festival. One chief was heard saying, “Today is Thanksgiving Day at the Holy Arousa. We don’t want any trouble. If there is anybody who considers himself an enemy of the Oba, let him see how he will end up.”
Reacting to the incident, former Governor Obaseki expressed surprise, noting that the attack was troubling.
“I am surprised that such an act could occur in our community. This is not only embarrassing but deeply troubling. I call on security agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly and transparently, identify those responsible, and ensure they are held accountable in accordance with the law. A situation where individuals take the law into their own hands undermines public order and safety,” he said in a statement.
He further urged human rights organizations, civil society groups, and all well-meaning Nigerians to speak out against the injustice. “I strongly condemn the violent attack, maiming, and abduction of my cousin, Dr. Pedro Obaseki, by armed individuals,” he added.
“I call on security agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly and transparently, identify those responsible, and ensure they are held accountable. I further urge human rights organizations, civil society groups, and all well-meaning Nigerians to lend their voices against this gross violation of human rights.”
