A social commentator known as Mr. Commonnsense has sparked intense public debate after condemning the reported humiliation of Don Pedro Obaseki, describing the incident as a reflection of the deepening degeneration of societal values in Edo State.

In a strongly worded statement shared online, Mr. Commonnsense argued that Don Pedro Obaseki remains one of the most distinguished personalities in Edo State, warning that treating such figures with disrespect under the guise of politics or culture only exposes how far society has declined.

“If there is anything like a first-class citizen of Edo State, Don Pedro Obaseki is one of such, and humiliating him like this is not making political or cultural statements. It is further expressing the degeneration of how bad and damaged our society has become,” he said.

“Agberos as Cultural Ambassadors”

The commentator further lamented what he described as a troubling shift where individuals previously associated with street violence and disorder now present themselves as defenders of culture and tradition.

According to him, many people who once “hid in the shadows” have suddenly emerged as cultural spokesmen, not through knowledge, discipline, or service, but through political relevance and intimidation.

“All agberos and louts that used to hide a few years ago have suddenly become the ambassadors of our cultures and traditions,” he added.

Culture or Intimidation?

Mr. Commonnsense stressed that true Edo and Benin traditions are built on respect, hierarchy, dialogue, and dignity, not public humiliation or mob-style actions. He warned that using culture as a weapon for political rivalry risks eroding the credibility of traditional institutions.

Observers say the statement touches on a broader concern across Edo State and Nigeria at large, where political interests increasingly intersect with cultural expressions, sometimes blurring the line between tradition and intimidation.

Public Reactions

The comments have drawn mixed reactions online. While many users agreed with Mr. Commonnsense, describing the situation as a “dangerous normalization of disorder,” others argued that cultural enforcement must be respected regardless of the personalities involved.

However, supporters insist that correction within cultural systems should follow established protocols rather than public disgrace, especially when it involves respected elders and public figures.

A Wider Conversation

Beyond the immediate incident, analysts believe the statement has opened a wider conversation about the state of civic values, respect for elders, and the politicization of culture in Edo State.

As debates continue, one thing remains clear: the incident and the reactions to it have reignited critical questions about who speaks for culture, how tradition should be upheld, and what kind of society Edo State is becoming.

Cc: @mr.commonsense_