Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State, has lambasted security operatives at Benin’s state house for denying his supporters entrance to the venue of his Supreme Court victory celebration on Friday.
Okpebholo directed the redeployment of security troops, including the Camp Commandant, who were stationed at the government residence throughout the event.
Jubilant supporters of the governor, including market women and members of the All Progressives Congress, gathered at Benin Airport at 7 a.m. on Friday to greet him.
Okpebholo’s plane landed at 12:40 p.m., and the supporters, many of whom were unable to move, marched alongside the governor’s motorcade, chanting solidarity songs.
The parade, which lasted nearly an hour, ended at the government house, where supporters were informed by security personnel that only Very Important People would be permitted to enter the site for refreshments.
The development outraged supporters, who complained that they had not been treated well.
In response to the incident, Okpebholo, through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, stated that the exclusion of invited visitors and supporters was not only illegal but also contradictory to the spirit of the celebration.
He claimed that he remains a people-focused and approachable leader who values the media and his fans highly.
The governor stated that he has formed an investigating committee to identify all those involved in the tragedy.
He insisted that his administration would not allow acts that sought to belittle or alienate those who supported him.
The statement added, “This decision did not originate from me, nor does it reflect my values. I will never knowingly authorise any action that disrespects our supporters or members of the press. As a governor elected by the people, I remain committed to openness, inclusion, and respect for every stakeholder.
“This administration is committed to fostering an atmosphere of unity and transparency, and I assure all supporters and stakeholders of their valued place in the journey to rebuild and reposition Edo State.”
“For this, I am ordering the immediate redeployment of security personnel, including the Camp Commandant, who was on duty at the government house in Benin on the day of the incident.”
