Don Pedro Obaseki, a filmmaker and cousin to former Edo State governor Godwin Obaseki, reported being abducted, physically assaulted, and publicly humiliated by unidentified individuals. The incident occurred during a football match at Uwa Primary School, where Obaseki was participating as a member of the Uwa All Stars team.

Obaseki provided a detailed account of the event via a video message distributed on social media and news platforms. According to his statement, armed individuals forcibly removed him from the football field and transported him through several major streets in Benin City, including Igbisawan Street, Akpapava, and Ring Road. He alleged that during this process, he was beaten, stripped naked, and taken to the palace of the Oba of Benin, where he was compelled to kneel in public.

Obaseki stated that the assailants claimed to be acting on instructions from the palace of the Oba of Benin. He further alleged that the motivation for the attack was a public statement he made in London, in which he wished prosperity for the people of Edo State without specifically referencing the Oba of Benin. According to Obaseki, his omission was interpreted as a significant insult to the traditional institution.

Following the events at the palace, Obaseki reported being taken to a police station on Oba Market Road. He stated that the Commissioner of Police intervened and ordered his immediate release. No further harm was reported after this intervention.

The incident has generated widespread public attention and calls for investigation. As of the time of this analysis, neither the Oba of Benin’s Palace nor the Edo State Police Command has issued an official statement. The absence of formal responses from both traditional and law enforcement authorities has led to increased public speculation and concern.

This case has prompted renewed debate regarding the influence of traditional institutions in contemporary governance and the legal boundaries of cultural authority. Observers have raised concerns that failure to address such incidents could undermine the rule of law and encourage extrajudicial actions justified by tradition.

Stakeholders, including human rights advocates and members of the public, are calling for a transparent investigation, identification and prosecution of those responsible, and assurances that the rights and dignity of all citizens are protected. The outcome of this case may have implications for the relationship between traditional authority and modern legal frameworks in Edo State and beyond.