BENIN CITY – The Nigerian creative and academic communities have erupted in outrage following the reported assault and public humiliation of renowned filmmaker, scholar, and cultural ambassador, Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki.
In separate strongly-worded statements released this week, the Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA) and the Ibadan Film Circle (IFC) condemned the incident, which occurred on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The groups described the attack as an act of “barbarism” that threatens the dignity of the nation’s cultural icons.
A “Heinous” Violation of Human Rights
The incident, which reportedly saw Dr. Obaseki stripped naked and paraded by a group of individuals in Benin City, has been met with disbelief. SONTA, the apex body for theatre researchers and practitioners in Nigeria, expressed deep concern over the involvement of local youths in the dehumanization of a man who has spent decades promoting Benin culture globally.
”The society is appalled that a people once known and admired for their rich culture and tradition will allow their youths to descend so low,” stated Prof. Tunji Azeez, President of SONTA. “It is of great concern that such a personality is paraded like a common criminal by the same people whose traditions he has upheld and promoted with pride.”
The Ibadan Film Circle (IFC) echoed these sentiments, labeling the assault a “gross violation of fundamental human rights.” The group’s coordinator, Túndé Oláoyè, emphasized that Dr. Obaseki’s contributions to the Nigerian film industry and his advocacy for cultural preservation make the attack an “affront to the dignity of the entire film community.”
Allegations and Calls for Justice
Both organizations highlighted troubling allegations regarding the masterminds behind the attack. SONTA noted the “purported link” of the palace to the act, while the IFC specifically mentioned “thugs claiming to act on behalf of the Benin Traditional Council.” Both groups, however, maintained that such actions do not represent the true values of the Benin people.
The creative bodies have laid out specific demands to ensure the matter is not swept under the carpet:
• Objective Investigation: SONTA called on the police to act with “objectivity, diligence, and professionalism” to identify both the perpetrators and their sponsors.
• Government Intervention: The IFC urged the Edo State Government and law enforcement agencies to ensure those responsible are held strictly accountable.
• Restoration of Dignity: Both groups stressed that bringing the attackers to justice is the only way to redeem the humiliation suffered by Dr. Obaseki.
Solidarity with a Cultural Icon
Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki is a celebrated playwright, director, and journalist whose creative works have been instrumental in advancing Nigerian arts on the international stage.
As the police investigation continues, the creative community has vowed to remain vigilant. “The entire creative world will not sit idly and watch one of our own disgraced in any way,” Prof. Azeez warned. “This act of hooliganism and disregard for law and order must stop.”
