By Funmilayo Adeyemi
An entertainment lawyer, Rockson Igelige, has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the alleged assault and public humiliation of Nigerian actor and cultural advocate, Dr Don Pedro Obaseki.
Obaseki, the cousin of former Edo state Governor and Chief Executive Officer of Hosamudia Farm was, in a video circulating in the internet attacked at Uwa Primary School, Benin city, where he had gone to play football.
In a strongly worded statement, made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja, Igelige condemned what he described as an unlawful and degrading treatment meted out to Obaseki.
He condemned the actions of the group of individuals who reportedly accosted, forcefully taken and subjected Obaseki to degrading treatment before being brought to the Palace of the Oba of Benin under claims relating to a cultural dispute.
Igelige said videos of the incident, which have circulated widely on social media, depicted actions that amounted to a clear violation of Obaseki’s fundamental human rights as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution.
He stressed that no cultural disagreement, allegation, or political difference can justify mob action or the public humiliation of any citizen.
“The acts captured in the videos are barbaric, criminal, and totally unacceptable under the rule of law,” the lawyer stated,
He added that such behaviour is inconsistent with the values and history of the Benin people, who are traditionally known for order, dignity, and respect for lawful authority.
Igelige further noted that those involved in the incident, even if they claimed to be acting in the name of a traditional institution, do not represent the true ethos of Benin culture.
“Barbarism, hooliganism, and mob violence are alien to authentic Benin tradition and must not be falsely clothed with it,” he said.
Highlighting Obaseki’s profile, Igelige described him as an illustrious son of Benin with documented contributions to the creative industry, cultural advocacy, and public discourse.
He maintained that the actor and academic has consistently promoted Benin history and values and has never posed a threat to public peace or traditional authority.
The lawyer called on the Edo State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant security and investigative agencies to commence a transparent probe into the incident.
He added that they must ensure that all those responsible are held accountable, regardless of their status or affiliation.
“Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done, especially given the widespread circulation of the videos,” Igelige said,
He expressed solidarity with Obaseki, whom he described as his former lecturer in Theatre Arts at the University of Benin.
The lawyer concluded by urging authorities to ensure that Obaseki receives both respect and appropriate redress in line with the law. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
