Tension at Edo Government House as Governor Okpebholo Denies Locking Out APC Supporters

A wave of controversy swept through the Edo State Government House on Saturday following reports that supporters of Governor Monday Okpebholo were denied access to the premises during a victory celebration, sparking outrage among party loyalists.

The incident occurred during festivities marking Okpebholo’s Supreme Court victory, with many All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters alleging they were barred from entering the Government House despite accompanying the governor in a celebratory procession from the airport to Benin City.

One supporter, speaking anonymously, claimed security officials at the gate informed them that only VIPs were permitted inside. “We were shocked. We followed the convoy only to be turned back at the gate,” the supporter said.

Another visibly upset party loyalist, Mrs. Ebosele Omogiate, criticized what she described as a sudden change in the governor’s attitude since assuming office. “This was never the case, even during Obaseki’s most unpopular moments. I stood for hours under the sun and joined the roadshow to celebrate our governor, only to be shut out,” she said.

In response, Governor Okpebholo swiftly distanced himself from the incident. In a statement released late Saturday, he denied issuing any directive to exclude supporters from the celebration, describing the action as “unacceptable and inconsistent with my leadership style.”

“The decision to lock out supporters did not come from me. It goes against the values I stand for. As a governor elected by the people, I am committed to openness, inclusion, and respect for every stakeholder,” he stated.

The governor also announced the immediate redeployment of security personnel stationed at the Government House gate, including the Camp Commandant, pending the outcome of an investigation. He ordered the formation of a committee to probe the incident and identify those responsible.

Okpebholo assured the public that anyone found culpable would face disciplinary action. “This administration will not tolerate actions that ridicule or alienate the very people who stood by us,” he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to being a people-focused leader, pledging that such incidents would not be repeated under his watch.