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By Oscar Okhifo
The Benin Traditional Council has denied any involvement of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, in the recent assault on veteran journalist and filmmaker, Don Pedro Obaseki in Benin City, describing the attack as unauthorized and “contrary to the character” of the revered monarch.
Pedro Obaseki, a cousin to former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, was recently assaulted in Benin City, the Edo State capital sparking speculation about palace involvement.
Godwin Obaseki, as Edo state Governor, reportedly had tense relations with the palace during his tenure, a claim consistently denied by the Oba.
The journalist is also said to be out of favor with the current Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
Addressing the incident, the Palace said, “The unfortunate incidence in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorized by the Oba of Benin, and cannot be authorized because it is not in the character of our revered monarch to do so.
” The Oba of Benin is a peace‑loving father to all.”
The Council also advised youths to respect the law and avoid taking justice into their own hands.
“The Benin Traditional Council also wishes to advise our youth not to take the laws into their hands on any issue no matter the degree of provocation. Social media users should equally endeavour to cross‑check information appropriately before posting.”
There’s yet to be any arrest related to the incident.
The Palace reiterated further, “We urge all parties to allow security agencies to handle any dispute. Resorting to violence or self-help is unacceptable and against the traditions of our land.”