The National Convener of the Benin Summit Group, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, has strongly condemned the assault and public humiliation of famend tradition advocate and filmmaker, Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki, by a gaggle of miscreants in Benin City.
The attackers reportedly claimed they have been appearing on the orders of the Palace of the Oba of Benin over an alleged offence towards the revered monarch—an allegation that has since been clearly and unequivocally debunked by the Palace, which dissociated itself from the incident.
In a press release issued on behalf of the Benin Summit Group, Earl Onaiwu described the assault as unjustifiable, shameful, and fully unacceptable.
“We condemn this action in its entirety. We will not support any group or individuals who seek to humiliate, intimidate, or assault any son of Benin under any guise whatsoever,” Onaiwu mentioned.
He welcomed the swift clarification by the Palace of the Oba of Benin, noting that the denial was essential in preserving the dignity and integrity of the revered establishment.
“We are relieved and happy that the Palace has come out clearly to state that it had no hand in this humiliation. This clarification is critical and must be respected by all,” he added.
Earl Onaiwu referred to as on regulation enforcement companies, notably the Nigeria Police Force, to instantly examine the incident and be sure that these accountable are recognized and dropped at justice.
“We call on the police to thoroughly investigate this matter and bring the perpetrators to book. No one should take the law into their hands or hide behind revered institutions to carry out acts of violence or intimidation,” he said.
He additional emphasised that the Benin Summit Group, which was shaped to advertise unity, peace, and collective progress amongst Benin little children, will proceed to face firmly for the safety of basic rights and human dignity.
“The Benin Summit Group will always strive to protect the rights and dignity of every Benin son and daughter. Our culture is rooted in respect, dialogue, and justice, not mob action or humiliation,” Onaiwu mentioned.
The group urged all stakeholders, youths, and group members to stay calm, law-abiding, and dedicated to peaceable coexistence, stressing that disputes should at all times be resolved by means of lawful and culturally applicable channels.
“We thank God almighty that the dastardly and barbaric act didn’t degenerate beyond bounds and the safety and sanity of own dear son who was assaulted is intact”
Earl Onaiwu mentioned
