The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has distanced himself from the alleged assault on veteran filmmaker Pedro Obaseki.
Pedro Obaseki, a cousin of former Edo State governor Godwin Obaseki, was reportedly attacked on Sunday by suspected thugs at Uwa Primary School in Benin City, where he had gone to play football. A video of the incident later circulated online, showing him being beaten, stripped, and dragged to the Oba’s palace, where he was forced to kneel at the gate.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, denied any involvement by the Oba, stressing that the incident was neither authorised nor reflective of the monarch’s character.
“The unfortunate incident in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorised by the Oba of Benin and cannot be authorised, as it is not in the character of our revered monarch,” the statement said.
The Council described the Oba as a peace-loving father figure who would not condone violence under any circumstance. It also warned youths against taking the law into their own hands, regardless of provocation, and urged them to respect the laws of the land in both conduct and speech.
Members of the public were advised to allow security agencies to handle all grievances, while social media users were cautioned to verify information before sharing.
The statement concluded with New Year goodwill from His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, CFR, reaffirming the palace’s commitment to peace, order, and lawful behaviour.
“Oba ghato kpere,” the statement added.
Speaking in an interview with AIT, Pedro Obaseki said his attackers claimed the incident was triggered by a comment he allegedly made in London, where he said, “May Edo people live long and prosper,” instead of the traditional phrase wishing the Oba long life.
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