DSS takes over probe of attack, alleged abduction of Don Pedro Obaseki

2026-02-09 - 15:08

By Ozioruva Aliu Benin City – The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally taken over the investigation into the December 28, 2025, attack on media mogul Don Pedro Obaseki, who was allegedly abducted following controversial remarks about the Benin Monarchy while in Europe. Obaseki was reportedly confronted by a group while playing football with friends, forced through the streets to the palace, and subsequently handed over to the police before his release. The development was confirmed in a statement by Obaseki’s counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), who noted that civil proceedings have also been instituted in Nigerian courts, with petitions submitted to international and regional bodies, including the ECOWAS Court of Justice, the European Union human-rights mechanisms, and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture and arbitrary detention. Falana revealed that Obaseki has engaged with the DSS in Benin City under the authority of the State Director, with all interactions formally documented. “Any concerns arising from these interactions, including conduct, handling, and procedural integrity, have been consolidated before the appropriate authorities,” he said. Describing the attack as an act of terrorism, Falana added that petitions submitted to law enforcement and security agencies within and outside Nigeria allege terrorism-related conduct, conspiracy, unlawful detention, assault, and obstruction of justice. He commended the DSS for recognising the gravity of the case and treating it as terrorism-related, saying Obaseki continues to cooperate fully with the investigation. Given the human-rights implications, Falana noted that communications have also been sent to international and regional mechanisms to ensure transparency, preserve evidence, and uphold Nigeria’s obligations under international human-rights and anti-terrorism frameworks.