Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sparked fresh controversy after warning that any commissioner attending State Executive Council (SEC) meetings without wearing a Tinubu-branded cap will be sent out.
He insisted that every member of his cabinet must openly show loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The governor issued the warning on Tuesday while swearing in newly confirmed commissioners and inaugurating various state boards and agencies.
He said his victory in the governorship election was largely due to President Tinubu’s support and therefore expected his team to demonstrate appreciation.
“This could not have happened without a responsible president,” Okpebholo said. “We’ve had many elections before, but the problem was that the president was not with us
. Today, we say thank you. I will not forgive any commissioner not wearing this cap. If you come to the exco meeting without it, go back.”
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration’s focus is not on propaganda but on practical governance that improves citizens’ lives.
He cautioned commissioners against using their offices for personal gain, stressing that their appointments were based on merit and service, not patronage.
“You have been screened and confirmed purely on merit,” he stated.
“This appointment is not for money-making but for service and sacrifice. Our government has zero tolerance for corruption.”
He urged the appointees to work in unity and ensure their performance reflects real development across communities in Edo State. “Your success will be measured by the impact you make on people’s lives,” he added.
Present at the inauguration was Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), alongside several top state officials.
Okpebholo’s insistence on wearing the Asiwaju cap has drawn mixed reactions across the state, with some seeing it as a symbol of loyalty, while others call it an unnecessary display of political subservience.
