Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has condemned the violent assault and abduction of his cousin, Don Pedro, by armed individuals in Benin City, alleging involvement of the Bini palace.
In a statement, Obaseki said Pedro, a former Managing Director of DAAR Communications and prominent Nollywood filmmaker, was attacked at Uwa Primary School, where he was physically assaulted, intimidated, and tortured before being forcefully taken to the palace.
“His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, the immediate past governor of Edo State, has condemned in the strongest terms the violent attack and abduction of his cousin, Dr. Pedro Obaseki at gun point by armed thugs said to be acting under the instructions of the palace of the Oba of Benin,” the statement read.
The former governor described the incident as a grave violation of human rights and a reckless disregard for the rule of law. He called on security agencies to “immediately investigate this matter thoroughly and transparently, identify those responsible for this barbaric act and ensure they are held accountable in accordance with the law.”
Human rights activist Kola Edokpayi also condemned the assault, which occurred while Pedro was playing football. According to reports, the attackers accused him of making disrespectful remarks against the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II. A viral video circulating online showed Pedro being dragged by the youths and publicly paraded before being taken to the palace.
Rowland Owie, former Chief Whip of the Senate, described the attack as a “despicable and criminal assault” and a violation of Pedro’s fundamental human rights, including personal liberty and freedom from inhuman treatment. He urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure a prompt investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Pedro himself recounted his ordeal:
“On Saturday, 28th December 2025, at about 11:00–11:30 a.m., while playing football at Uwa Primary School, Igbesanmwan Street, Benin City, I was suddenly attacked by a group of men. The attackers, some of whom were armed and brandishing guns, forcibly abducted and kidnapped me… I was severely beaten, dragged along the streets, and stripped completely naked… From there, I was further dragged around Ring Road and forcibly taken into the Oba’s Palace… While in this condition, I attempted to plead for my life and dignity as the Oba drove past me… Eventually, at about 5:15 p.m., I was released from custody,” he stated.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups and prominent figures, who called for justice and measures to prevent such incidents in Edo State.
