The Obaseki family of Benin, Edo State, has thrown its weight behind Dr Don Pedro Obaseki’s decision to seek legal redress over what it describes as his unlawful humiliation following allegations of disrespect to the Oba of Benin
Dr Obaseki, a former Managing Director of DAAR Communications, was reportedly stripped by a mob on Sunday morning at the Uwa Primary School football field in Benin.
He was allegedly beaten, intimidated and forcefully taken away in what eyewitnesses described as a commando-style operation, sparking widespread outrage and public condemnation.
Addressing journalists at a press conference on Tuesday, the family said it fully supported Dr Obaseki’s resolve to pursue legal action and obtain appropriate compensation.
The family condemned the incident as barbaric, shameful and a gross violation of fundamental human rights, vowing to stand firmly with their son throughout the legal process.
“We are confident that the law enforcement authorities will take up this matter to its logical conclusion,” the family said. “The Obaseki name has long been carved in gold through diligent service, sacrifice and contributions over centuries. The law is there to address illegalities and threats.”
They urged members of the family to remain law-abiding, adding: “We urge our children to go about their lives and uphold our proud legacy—firmly, peacefully and always within constitutional boundaries.”
Speaking on behalf of the family, the Okaegbe of Obaseki Family Worldwide, Pa Daniel Igbinovia Obaseki, condemned the alleged assault, describing it as deeply distressing.
“No father, mother, brother, sister or person of good conscience can witness such sordid humiliation of a son of Benin, a respected professional, cultural ambassador and member of a frontline, noble family, without being profoundly shaken,” he said.
Pa Obaseki explained that the family deliberately delayed its response in order to fully assess the “bizarre” incident and await the reaction of relevant authorities. However, he said disturbing images circulating in the public domain compelled the family to speak out, warning that such acts could damage Benin’s long-held reputation as a home of culture, peace and discipline.
He described the footage as savage and wholly inconsistent with Benin values, stressing that no person of conscience could witness such treatment of a son of the soil without deep concern.
The Obaseki Council also clarified that its stance was neither political nor partisan, noting that the family had always accommodated diverse political views as long as they were expressed with civility, respect and strict adherence to the law.
It maintained that Dr Don Pedro Obaseki had conducted himself honourably at all times and that there was no justification whatsoever for the violence allegedly meted out to him.
While reaffirming its respect for the Palace of the Oba of Benin as a unifying institution and moral compass for the Benin people, the family warned that no actions by non-palace functionaries should be allowed to undermine the dignity and exalted status of the revered traditional institution.
In the interest of justice and societal balance, the family called for a thorough, lawful and impartial investigation into the incident, urging that anyone found culpable be held accountable.
“The Obaseki Council has been deeply disturbed by the deplorable incident of mob violence and public humiliation meted out in broad daylight to our son on Sunday, December 28, 2025, by suspected individuals who are neither palace functionaries nor agents of the state,” the statement said.
The family also appealed for calm and restraint, urging members of the public to shun incitement and vengeance.
“This moment calls for wisdom, not incitement; for justice, not vengeance; and for a strong resolve to restore sanity and reaffirm the finest values of the Benin people,” the council added.
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