The Dr. Pedro Obaseki Abduction: A Shocking Account of Violence and Political Tension in Edo State
The Nigerian digital landscape and political sphere have been rocked by a harrowing “not yet public” statement released via Twitter by renowned journalist Oseni Rufai. The statement, credited to Dr. Pedro Obaseki, details a brutal assault, public humiliation, and abduction that allegedly took place in the heart of Benin City on December 28, 2025.
As this story develops, it raises profound questions about the intersection of tradition, politics, and human rights in modern Nigeria. Below, we break down the details of the statement and the implications of this disturbing report.
The Incident: A Morning of Violence at Uwa Primary School
According to the official statement, the ordeal began between 11:00 and 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 28, 2025. Dr. Pedro Obaseki was reportedly engaging in a routine game of football at Uwa Primary School on Igbesanmwan Street, Benin City, when he was suddenly descended upon by a group of men.
Obaseki identifies several individuals allegedly leading the attack, naming Kapuepue Adun, Osayande Obakhavbaye, Osamede “Nomoless” Eriyo, and Osamiefan (alias “Sales Guy”). The statement claims these individuals were armed and brandishing firearms, creating a scene of terror for bystanders and the victim alike.
The Alleged Motive: “Edo Gha To Kpere” vs. “Oba Gha To Kpere”
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the statement is the motive cited by the attackers. Dr. Obaseki claims his abductors explicitly stated they were acting on behalf of the Oba’s Palace.
The grievance reportedly stemmed from a speech Obaseki delivered to the Edo community in London. In that speech, he allegedly used the closing phrase “Edo gha to kpere” (meaning “Long live the Edo people”) instead of the traditional royal salute “Oba gha to kpere” (“Long live the Oba”). According to the statement, the attackers claimed they were sent to “deal with any Obaseki,” suggesting a targeted campaign against members of the prominent family.
A 5-Kilometre Walk of Shame: Public Humiliation in Benin City
The details of the physical assault are graphic and distressing. Dr. Obaseki alleges that he was:
- Severely beaten and dragged through the streets.
- Stripped completely naked in a deliberate act of public shaming.
- Paraded past landmarks including Igbesanmwan Road and the Holy Aruosa Church.
- Dragged around the Ring Road, a central hub of Benin City, before being taken into the Palace premises.
This “walk of shame,” spanning approximately five kilometres, represents a shocking breach of human dignity and public order, especially if such acts were carried out with impunity in broad daylight.
Events Inside the Palace and Police Involvement
Dr. Obaseki further alleges that inside the Palace grounds, the abuse continued. He describes being gagged, slapped, and forced to kneel naked. He claims he attempted to plead for his life as the Oba drove past him within the compound.
Following the ordeal at the Palace, the statement claims Obaseki was moved to the Oba Market Police Station. The involvement of the authorities adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Obaseki asserts that the State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, visited him three times, allegedly stating that his release was contingent upon “clearance from the Oba.” He was eventually released at 5:15 p.m. after five hours in detention.
Why This Matters: The Rule of Law vs. Traditional Authority
The allegations made by Dr. Pedro Obaseki, if proven true, signal a dangerous precedent for civil liberties in Edo State.
- Human Rights Violations: The stripping and public parading of a citizen constitute “torture, inhuman or degrading treatment,” which is strictly prohibited under the Nigerian Constitution.
- The Role of Law Enforcement: The claim that a Police Commissioner required “clearance” from a traditional ruler to release a citizen raises serious concerns about the independence of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF).
- Political Fallout: The Obaseki family has long been central to Edo State politics. An attack of this nature, citing “any Obaseki” as a target, suggests an escalation of political and traditional tensions that could destabilize the region.
Conclusion: A Call for Investigation
As this statement circulates through social media channels like X (formerly Twitter), the public is demanding answers. Neither the Edo State Government nor the Palace of the Oba of Benin has issued an official rebuttal at the time of this writing, but the gravity of the allegations necessitates a transparent, independent investigation.
In a democratic society, no individual—regardless of status or traditional backing—is above the law. The events of December 28, 2025, remain a dark cloud over Benin City, and the world is watching to see how justice will be served.
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