By Ayo Kehinde
The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has strongly condemned and distanced the Oba of Benin from the recent incident involving the manhandling of Mr. Pedro Obaseki, describing the act as unauthorised and contrary to the values of the revered monarchy.
In a public announcement issued on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the Council clarified that the unfortunate incident was neither sanctioned nor approved by His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II.
The statement, signed by the Secretary of the Council, Mr. Frank Irabor, emphasized that the Oba of Benin is a peace-loving father to all and would never endorse acts of violence or unlawful conduct against any individual.
This follows reports that Dr. Pedro Obaseki—a renowned Nollywood filmmaker and cousin of former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki—was abducted, stripped, and assaulted by youths at Uwa Primary School on Sunday, December 28, 2025, over alleged disrespectful cultural remarks made in London.
“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 to do so,” the statement read.
The BTC cautioned youths and members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, irrespective of the level of provocation, stressing the need for strict adherence to the laws of the land.
The Council urged that all grievances and disputes be handled by appropriate security agencies, noting that resorting to “self-help” undermines peace and public order.
Furthermore, the BTC advised social media users to exercise restraint and cross-check information thoroughly before sharing, to prevent the spread of misinformation capable of inciting tension.
The announcement aims to calm public reactions and reaffirm the Oba’s reputation as a symbol of unity and moral authority in the Benin Kingdom.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has since intervened in the matter, and the Palace seeks to maintain a peaceful environment as the state transitions into the new year.
