Nigeria: Benin Palace denies involvement in attack on media guru Don Pedro Obaseki

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Benin Palace has firmly denied any involvement in the violent assault on media personality *Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki which took place last Sunday following his remarks at a meet‑and‑greet event for former Edo Governor Godwin Obasek in the United Kingdom.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor emphasized that the attack was “not authorized by the Oba of Benin,” and that such actions are entirely out of character for His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare who is described as “a peace‑loving father to all.”

The statement urged young people to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, regardless of provocation, and called on social‑media users to verify information before sharing it publicly.

The Benin Traditional Council wishes to inform the general public that the unfortunate incident in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorized by the Oba of Benin. And it 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.”

 Youths should respect the rule of law and allow security agencies to handle disputes.

 Social‑media users must cross‑check facts before posting to avoid spreading misinformation.

His Royal Majesty extends warm New Year greetings to all, wishing peace, unity, and prosperity in 2026.

The assault on Obaseki drew widespread condemnation, including from Edo State’s PDP leadership and former Governor Godwin Obaseki who vowed legal action against those responsible.

The Benin Palace’s statement comes amid rising tensions over perceived slins against traditional institutions and highlights the importance of restraint and responsible communication in public discourse.