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By Tracy Moses
The Nigerian Association of Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) has strongly condemned the alleged humiliation and inhuman treatment of Don Pedro Obaseki, a renowned cultural worker, intellectual, and politician, calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident.
Obaseki is a veteran cultural practitioner widely respected for his contributions to Nigeria’s theatre and arts industry. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in promoting cultural awareness, mentoring emerging artists, and advocating for the preservation and advancement of Nigerian creative heritage. He is also known for his active engagement in public service and politics, which has elevated his profile as a prominent figure in both the creative and civic spheres.
The recent incident reportedly involved alleged public humiliation and inhuman treatment under circumstances that remain unclear, sparking outrage among theatre arts practitioners, human rights advocates, and civil society groups.
The association’s position was contained in a press statement signed by its National President, Adeniran Makinde, fta, in which NANTAP described the alleged act as a gross violation of human dignity and a disturbing abuse of power. According to the association, the treatment allegedly meted out to Obaseki runs contrary to the principles of civility, justice, and respect that should define a democratic society.
“No individual, regardless of circumstance or status, deserves to be subjected to public humiliation, physical or psychological abuse, or any form of treatment that strips them of their humanity,” the statement read.
NANTAP noted that Obaseki represents far more than an individual, describing him as a symbol of Nigeria’s creative and intellectual community, having devoted decades of his life to the promotion of culture, arts, and national development.
“An attack on his dignity is an attack on the entire cultural sector and on the conscience of the nation,” the association stated, stressing that such actions, if left unchecked, undermine the moral foundation of society.
The association therefore demanded an immediate, transparent, and comprehensive investigation by the appropriate authorities, insisting that all those found culpable, whether directly or indirectly involved, must be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“NANTAP demands full accountability from any institution or agency found to be complicit in this alleged inhuman act,” the statement said.
“There must also be concrete assurances that such conduct will not be tolerated or repeated against any Nigerian citizen.”
Emphasising Nigeria’s status as a constitutional democracy, the association insisted that the rule of law must be upheld at all times, warning against the normalisation of intimidation, humiliation, and lawlessness.
“Nigeria must not become a society where abuse of power is excused and human dignity is expendable,” the association warned. “The rule of law must prevail over impunity, and justice must never be selective.”
NANTAP also expressed solidarity with Obaseki, his family, colleagues, and all advocates of human rights, dignity, and freedom of expression, urging government authorities, civil society organisations, the creative community, and well-meaning Nigerians to speak out against injustice.
“An injury to one is an injury to all,” the association concluded.