The Benin Traditional Council has denied any involvement by the Oba of Benin in the alleged manhandling of Pedro Obaseki, stressing that the incident was neither authorised nor in keeping with the character of the revered monarch.

In a public announcement issued on 31 December 2025 and signed by the Secretary of the Council, Frank Irabor, the council said the Oba of Benin is a peace-loving father to all and would not sanction acts of violence under any circumstance.

“The unfortunate incident in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorised by the Oba of Benin and cannot be authorised, as it is not in the character of our revered monarch,” the statement read.

The Council cautioned youths against taking the law into their own hands, regardless of the level of provocation, and urged them to respect the laws of the land in both actions and utterances.

It further advised members of the public to allow appropriate security agencies handle all matters, while also warning social media users to verify information properly before sharing.

The statement concluded with New Year goodwill from His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, as the Palace reaffirmed its commitment to peace and lawful conduct.

“Oba ghato kpere,” the release added.