Dr. Pedro Obaseki, cousin of former Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, has threatened to pursue legal action against the state government and the Benin Traditional Council over what he described as a “brutal public abduction and violent assault” in the state capital.
The incident reportedly occurred on December 28, 2025, at Uwa Primary School, where Obaseki had gone to play football.
According to his account, he was forcibly taken from the school premises by suspected thugs to the Oba of Benin’s palace, where he alleges he was made to crawl before some chiefs arrived at the scene. A video of the attack later circulated online, with assailants reportedly shouting, “Oghion (enemy) Oba.”
In a press statement issued Monday, Obaseki emphasized that his decision to approach the court was informed by consultations with his family, senior legal advisers, and respected elders. He insisted the move was not politically motivated but aimed at ensuring accountability, deterring future attacks, and protecting human dignity.
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Describing the ordeal as a “brazen daylight operation,” Obaseki said he was beaten, stripped, threatened with death, and paraded along major roads in Benin City while the assault was live-streamed. He characterized the acts as a violation of his fundamental rights, amounting to terrorism-related violence under Nigerian law.
The Benin Traditional Council has formally denied any involvement, issuing a widely publicized letter distancing the palace from the incident. Obaseki acknowledged the clarification as the official position of the palace and incorporated it into the public record.
To pursue justice, Obaseki has retained leading human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, who will serve as his lead counsel. He revealed that both civil and criminal proceedings would be filed concurrently in line with Nigerian and international law, emphasizing his commitment to due process and the presumption of innocence.
The case has already drawn public attention, highlighting broader concerns about public safety, accountability, and the protection of citizens from politically or socially motivated acts of violence in Nigeria.
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