SSS Assumes Responsibility for Investigation of Don Pedro Obaseki's Abduction and Attack

The State Security Services (SSS) has officially taken charge of the investigation concerning the reported abduction and assault of veteran filmmaker Don Pedro Obaseki, which occurred in Benin City on December 28, 2025.

The incident elicited widespread public outrage after a controversial video surfaced, depicting Obaseki being stripped, assaulted, and paraded through the streets before being taken to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.

This development follows Obaseki's announcement of legal action against those responsible for the attack. He intends to engage prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, to represent him in pursuing both civil and criminal proceedings in accordance with Nigerian law.

Prior to this, Obaseki had sought the intervention of the SSS regarding the assault incident. However, he asserted that his latest actions aimed to promote justice, uphold the rule of law, and ensure public accountability, emphasizing that they were not driven by a desire for sensationalism or political gain.

In a statement, Falana disclosed that the SSS has classified the case as terrorism-related. He affirmed that the SSS headquarters in Abuja has assumed responsibility for the probe, recognizing the severe nature and significance of the allegations.

The allegations involve acts of conspiracy, assault, unlawful detention, and obstruction of justice following the events of December 28, 2025. Obaseki has expressed his appreciation for this classification and remains cooperative with the ongoing lawful investigative efforts.

Falana has also indicated that Obaseki has engaged with SSS officials in Benin City, where interactions have been properly documented and submitted to the relevant authorities.

Moreover, the legal team has initiated civil proceedings in Nigeria, seeking judicial reliefs while ensuring these actions do not interfere with ongoing investigations by security agencies. They have also reached out to international bodies, including the ECOWAS Court of Justice and human rights entities within the European Union and the United Nations, concerning the matter.

The statement noted that social media platforms have been alerted to monitor and regulate the distribution of footage connected to Obaseki's alleged mistreatment, ensuring responsible use and compliance with lawful accountability measures.

In December of 2025, a video went viral showing Obaseki, related to the former governor of Edo State, enduring public humiliation as he was accused of disrespecting the Oba during an event in London. Despite initial claims linking the assault to the traditional council, the palace distanced itself from the incident, condemning the actions as contrary to the values of the throne and asserting that Oba Ewuare II is committed to promoting peace and justice.