Ex-Gov Obaseki Fumes as Cousin Dr. Pedro Is Stripped, Beaten in Benin — Family Demands Answers

Former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has publicly condemned a brutal incident in neighbouring Benin Republic, where his cousin, Dr. Pedro, was allegedly beaten and forcibly stripped by security agents during a routine stop in the country. Obaseki described the attack as a shocking violation of human dignity and called for immediate investigation and justice.

The incident, which has sparked outrage not only within Obaseki’s family but also among human rights advocates, raises concerns about the treatment of travelers at checkpoints and the broader security situation in West Africa.

What Happened to Dr. Pedro?

According to reports, Dr. Pedro was travelling through Benin Republic when he was stopped by local security operatives. What should have been a standard checkpoint interaction reportedly escalated when officers allegedly ordered him to remove his clothes and subjected him to physical assault — an act described by Obaseki and the family as degrading and unjustifiable.

The former governor has demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, saying that no one should be subjected to such treatment regardless of location or national boundaries.

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Obaseki’s Strong Words

In a statement released following the event, Obaseki expressed deep disappointment, saying:

> “The conduct shown towards my cousin is unacceptable and a violation of basic human rights. We call on the authorities to provide answers and ensure accountability.”

His remarks reflect growing frustration among Nigerians and West Africans over human rights abuses and heavy-handed treatment in regions plagued by security tensions and overzealous enforcement measures.

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Regional Implications and Human Rights Concerns

The incident comes at a time when relations between Nigeria and its neighbours — particularly in the context of security cooperation and cross-border travel — are already tense due to ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and transnational crime.

Human rights organisations have condemned the reported treatment of Dr. Pedro, noting that brutality at checkpoints remains a concern across multiple Sahel and West African states. Rights advocates say that such incidents undermine trust in law enforcement and jeopardise the safety of both citizens and visitors.

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Calls for Accountability

Obaseki’s family — supported by civil society groups — is urging:

A formal explanation from Beninese authorities

An independent investigation into the alleged assault

Support and protection for Dr. Pedro as he recovers

Reinforced training for security operatives on human rights standards

Experts note that diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and Benin Republic will be crucial to resolving the dispute and preventing similar episodes in the future.

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Public Reaction

Reactions from Nigerians have ranged from outrage to concern:

Social media users have expressed solidarity with Obaseki and Dr. Pedro, condemning human rights abuses anywhere in the world.

Others have called on Nigerian diplomats to pursue the matter vigorously, stressing that citizens abroad deserve protection and respect.

Some analysts warn that such incidents can strain bilateral relations if not addressed transparently.

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Conclusion

The alleged assault on Dr. Pedro has ignited more than just personal anger — it has spotlighted broader questions about human dignity, cross-border security conduct, and the responsibility of governments to protect visitors and citizens alike.

As calls for accountability grow louder, how both Nigerian and Beninese authorities respond could shape not just diplomatic relations, but also how citizens on both sides of the border navigate safety and respect in a region still confronting security challenges.