Oba of Benin Denies Involvement in Assault
Oba of Benin Denies Involvement in Assault on Ex-Governor Obaseki’s Cousin
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has denied authorizing the assault on Don Pedro Obaseki, cousin of former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki. The denial comes after Obaseki was brutally attacked by a group of youths who claimed he disrespected the Oba during a speech in London.
Don Pedro Obaseki, a renowned filmmaker and cultural advocate, was abducted while playing football in Benin City, stripped naked, and dragged through the streets before being taken to the Oba’s Palace. He alleged that the attackers claimed to be acting on behalf of the Oba, citing his use of the phrase “Edo gha to kpere” (Long live the Edo people) instead of “Oba gha to kpere” (Long live the Oba of Benin)
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with Amnesty International describing it as “barbaric and unlawful”. The Edo State government and former Governor Godwin Obaseki have also condemned the attack, calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
The Oba’s Palace has distanced itself from the incident, with a chief advising the youths to avoid causing unrest. The police have launched an investigation, and Don Pedro Obaseki has vowed to pursue the matter legally .
The attack has raised concerns about human rights and the rule of law in Edo State, with many calling for accountability and an end to violence.
Author: K. Mawuli
