Okpebholo redeploys security personnel over denial of supporters at Govt House

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate redeployment of security personnel, including the Camp Commandant, who were on duty at the Government House, Benin, after his supporters were denied access to the venue of his Supreme Court victory celebration on Friday.

Supporters — including market women and members of the All Progressives Congress — had gathered as early as 7 a.m. at the Benin Airport to welcome the governor. Okpebholo’s flight landed around 12:40 p.m., after which the crowd joined his motorcade in a spirited road procession, singing solidarity songs.

The procession, which lasted about an hour, ended at the Government House. However, security operatives there announced that only Very Important Personalities (VIPs) would be allowed in for refreshments, leaving the rest of the supporters outside. This decision sparked outrage among the supporters, who felt sidelined.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo condemned the exclusion of his supporters, describing it as unauthorised and contrary to the spirit of celebration. He reaffirmed his commitment to being a people-focused and accessible leader.