Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the actions of security operatives attached to the Edo State Government House in Benin City for allegedly barring his supporters from gaining access to the premises during a planned celebration of his recent Supreme Court victory.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, July 12, 2025, sparked public outrage after jubilant supporters — including party faithful, market women, and youth groups — were reportedly denied entry into the venue where the governor’s homecoming and thanksgiving event was scheduled to hold.
In a swift response, Governor Okpebholo ordered the redeployment of all security personnel on duty at the time, including the Camp Commandant, who was said to have overseen the actions of the operatives during the disruption.
The governor expressed deep disappointment over what he described as an unnecessary show of force against peaceful citizens who had come out in good faith to celebrate a significant judicial milestone. He emphasized that the Government House belongs to the people of Edo State and not a select few, warning that such acts of political sabotage would not be tolerated under his leadership.
“I find it unacceptable that supporters who came to celebrate a landmark victory for democracy were treated with such hostility at their own Government House,” Okpebholo said. “This administration stands for openness, inclusiveness, and respect for the people. No one has the right to turn the seat of government into a fortress against the citizens.”
According to eyewitness reports, a large crowd of APC supporters had gathered at the Benin Airport as early as 7 a.m., where they received Governor Okpebholo amid cheers, music, and chants of victory following the Supreme Court ruling that affirmed his candidacy and election. The crowd then moved in a procession to the Government House for a scheduled reception and address by the governor. However, tensions rose when security officials allegedly blocked the gates, insisting that the gathering was unauthorised.
Sources within the administration disclosed that the governor was not informed in advance of any security concerns or restrictions, further fuelling suspicions that the move may have been politically motivated. In response, Okpebholo has directed a review of security protocols within the Government House and ordered disciplinary action where necessary.
He also used the occasion to reassure citizens of his unwavering commitment to unity and transparent governance, calling on political stakeholders across party lines to put the state’s interest first.
“This victory belongs to the people — to every Edo son and daughter who believes in justice, in progress, and in the future we are building together,” the governor said during a brief address to his supporters outside the Government House gates. “No obstacle, no barrier will stop us from celebrating what is rightfully ours.”
As investigations into the incident continue, the governor has urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protect the rights and dignity of every citizen.
