Okpebholo Mandates Asiwaju Cap for Commissioners, Bars Non-Compliant Members from Exco Meetings

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a firm directive to his newly appointed commissioners and board members, warning that failure to wear the symbolic ‘Asiwaju cap’ popularly associated with President Bola Tinubu will result in exclusion from Executive Council meetings.

The governor made this pronouncement on Tuesday during the swearing-in ceremony of 20 commissioners and members of various boards in Benin City. Emphasising loyalty to the president, Okpebholo said the event would not have been possible without Tinubu’s support.

“Before we begin, let me say this could not have happened without a responsible President. We’ve had many elections here, and our major problem was that the President wasn’t with us,” he stated.

Pointing to his cap, Okpebholo warned: “You see this cap I’m wearing? I will not forgive any commissioner who isn’t wearing it. If you come to the Exco in traditional attire without this Asiwaju cap, you’re going back.”

The statement underscores the governor’s alignment with the APC-led federal government and President Tinubu’s political symbolism, as the Asiwaju cap has become a notable identifier of loyalty within the party’s ranks.

In addition to the symbolic requirement, Governor Okpebholo used the occasion to deliver a strong anti-corruption message, cautioning the appointees against misconduct or any action that could tarnish the image of his administration.

He emphasised that the appointments were made strictly on merit, not as a form of political compensation.

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“Your nominations are not rewards or patronage but a call to serve the people of Edo State. Our administration is committed to practical governance that directly impacts lives. We are focused on service delivery and tangible results, not propaganda,” the governor added.