Obaseki Family Condemns Mob Assault on Dr. Pedro Obaseki, Pledges Support for Legal Action
The Obaseki family of Edo State has strongly condemned the mob attack and public humiliation of their son, Dr. Don Pedro Agbonifo Obaseki, and pledged full support for his decision to seek legal redress over the incident.
The family’s statement followed a broad daylight assault on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in Benin City, where Dr. Obaseki, a well‑known journalist and former Managing Director of DAAR Communications, was reportedly beaten, stripped and forcefully taken away by suspected assailants while at a football field at Uwa Primary School. Eyewitnesses say the attackers marched him toward the Oba of Benin’s palace, in an incident captured in video footage that quickly spread on social media.
Addressing journalists at a press conference, Pa Daniel Igbinovia Obaseki, the Okaegbe (head) of the Obaseki Family Worldwide, described the assault as “barbaric, shameful and a gross violation of fundamental human rights.” He said the family had waited for official reactions before speaking out but was compelled to act after seeing disturbing scenes circulating online.
Pa Obaseki added that Dr. Pedro Obaseki has always conducted himself honourably, and there was no justification for the violence against him. The family said it would support lawful and impartial processes to investigate the matter and ensure accountability for anyone found culpable.
In their statement, the Obaseki family also reaffirmed respect for the Oba of Benin and the palace as a revered cultural institution, but warned that non‑palace actors should not undermine its dignity. They urged Edo citizens to remain calm and avoid incitement, stressing that justice, not vengeance, should guide the response.
The attack has sparked broader outrage, with rights groups and prominent figures condemning the assault and calling for thorough investigations. Dr. Obaseki himself has vowed to pursue both civil and criminal action against those responsible, insisting on accountability through legal channels without resorting to violence.