Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has directed the removal of security officers, including the Camp Commandant, who were on duty at the Government House in Benin after his supporters were prevented from attending a celebration held in his honour.

The incident occurred on Friday after a crowd of supporters—mostly market women and APC members—welcomed the governor at the Benin Airport following his Supreme Court victory. After his arrival around 12:40 p.m., they joined a road procession alongside his convoy to the Government House, chanting and celebrating.

However, on arrival at the venue, the supporters were blocked by security personnel who claimed that only VIPs were permitted to enter and partake in the refreshment, leaving many of them frustrated and disappointed.

Governor Okpebholo, in a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, expressed displeasure over the incident, describing the exclusion as unauthorized and not reflective of his administration’s values. He emphasized that he remains committed to being a governor for the people—accessible, respectful, and inclusive.

He announced that an investigative committee would look into the actions of those involved and reaffirmed his commitment to treating all supporters and stakeholders with dignity.

To prevent a recurrence, the governor ordered the immediate redeployment of the security personnel who handled access control at the event.