Governor Okpebholo Reads Riot Act to Edo Commissioners, Insists on Wearing ‘Asiwaju Cap’ at Executive Meetings

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern directive to members of his cabinet, warning that any commissioner who fails to wear the “Asiwaju cap,” popularly known as the “President Bola Tinubu cap,” will be sent out of the weekly Executive Council meetings.

Governor Okpebholo sounded the warning on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, during the swearing-in ceremony of 20 new commissioners and members of various boards held in Benin City.

The governor emphasized that the swearing-in ceremony would not have been possible without the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that past elections in the state were lost due to the lack of presidential backing for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“First of all, before we begin I want to say that this couldn’t have happened if we did not have a responsible President. We have done so many elections here. The major problem we had was the President is not with us.

“So, let me tell you, before we begin, you see this cap I am wearing? I will not forgive any commissioner that is not wearing it.

“In EXCO, if you are not wearing a suit, and you are wearing a traditional dress, and you are coming to the EXCO without this Asiwaju cap, you are going back,” he warned.

Governor Okpebholo further cautioned that his administration would not tolerate corruption or any form of misconduct capable of undermining its integrity and reform-driven objectives. He reiterated that his government is built on transparency, discipline, and a commitment to service rather than political patronage.

“Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State. This administration came into office on the promise of practical governance to touch the lives of our people directly.

“My administration’s focus remains on service delivery and tangible results, not propaganda. Our focus is not on propaganda, but on service delivery and tangible results that can be felt in every community across our state,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo urged the new appointees to regard their positions as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development and transformation of Edo State, warning against the temptation of using public office for personal enrichment.

Speaking on behalf of the appointees, Festus Ebea expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in them. He assured that they would work collectively to actualize the administration’s vision and support its developmental agenda for a better Edo State.

The event marked a renewed pledge by the Okpebholo-led government to consolidate on its reform agenda, strengthen party unity, and align its governance structure with the vision of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope philosophy.