Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has denied ordering the lockout of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters from Government House, Benin, during the Supreme Court victory celebration.
Daily Trust had reported how supporters of Okpebholo who walked behind the governor’s convoy from the airport to Government House were locked out following alleged order to prevent them from accessing the premises.
According to one of the supporters, who spoke off record, they were told that the governor gave an order that they should not be allowed in.
“We were were stunned on reaching the gate and were informed by security operatives that only Very Important Personalities (VIPs) would be allowed into the government house for refreshments,” he had said.
Another supporter who identified herself as Mrs. Ebosele Omogiate lamented that unlike during the campaign period, the governor decided to build a wall around himself.
“In the worst moments of ex-governor Godwin Obaseki, supporters and members were not shabbily treated like this.”
“I left house before 7am for the airport and stood under the sun for hours before the arrival of the governor,
“We engaged on a road show with the him to the Government House, only for us to be shut out. This treatment is unfair,” she added.
But the governor, who denied giving such order, directed the immediate redeployment of security personnel, including the Camp Commandant at government house gate.
He also constituted an investigative committee to identify all those involved in the unfortunate incident.
Okpebholo who expressed regret over the incident in a statement on Saturday, described the action as unacceptable and inconsistent with his leadership style.
“This decision did not originate from me, nor does it reflect my values. I will never knowingly authorize 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,” he said.
He added that the exclusion of invited guests and supporters was not only unauthorized but also in complete contradiction to the spirit of the celebration.
“I remains a people-focused and accessible leader who holds the media and supporters in the highest regard”.
He assured that anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action, adding that his administration would not tolerate acts that seek to ridicule or alienate the very people who stood by him.
