What began as a day of triumph and celebration for supporters of Governor Monday Okpebholo turned into disappointment and frustration on Friday, as hundreds of loyalists—many of whom had marched under the sun for hours—were denied entry into the Edo State Government House.
The crowd had gathered with joy and pride, hailing the Supreme Court’s verdict a day earlier that affirmed Governor Okpebholo’s victory in the September 2024 governorship election. It was meant to be a moment of unity—a public celebration of victory. But for many of those who showed up in solidarity, it became a moment they would rather forget.
As early as 7:00 am, market women, APC party members, and youths began converging at the Benin Airport to welcome the governor. Some traveled from far-flung towns and communities. Others had closed their shops just to be there. By 12:40 pm, when the governor’s aircraft landed, the atmosphere was electric. Cheers rang out. Banners waved. Feet danced. Hope was in the air.
With the governor’s convoy, the supporters walked—yes, walked—through the city in a euphoric road procession that lasted nearly an hour. Songs of praise echoed through the streets as the crowd followed their leader to the gates of the Edo State Government House.
Then came the shock.
Security operatives at the gate stopped the crowd from entering. Their message was blunt: only Very Important Personalities (VIPs) would be allowed inside for the official celebration and refreshments.
The moment stung.
“We walked with him all the way, singing, rejoicing, only to be told we’re not important enough,” lamented Mrs. Omogiate, a longtime APC supporter. “Even at the worst of times during Obaseki’s tenure, we were never treated like this.”
Another supporter, visibly exhausted and emotional, spoke under anonymity:
“I left my house before 7:00 am. Stood in the sun. Walked all the way with the governor’s convoy. And now we’re shut out? They’ve won, and now they’ve built a wall between themselves and the people.”
Frustrated voices grew louder outside the gates. Some supporters took turns expressing their pain and disbelief. Many were not just angry—they felt abandoned. What was supposed to be their victory started to feel like someone else’s exclusive party.
Inside the Government House, celebrations continued with dignitaries, political allies, and key officials. But outside, the people who cheered the loudest and walked the longest were left watching through the gates—forgotten, at least for that moment.
Governor Okpebholo, who had just pledged to be a people-first leader, now faces a challenge not just of governance, but of trust. Friday’s incident may seem small in the political timeline—but for the people who felt left out, it was a big message. One they won’t forget soon.
