By Abiola Olawale
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has mandated that all commissioners and special advisers in his administration wear the “Asiwaju cap”, a signature accessory emblazoned with branding for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during official engagements.
The governor gave the directive on Tuesday while swearing in newly appointed commissioners and inaugurating commissions and boards of agencies in Benin.
Speaking at the Government House in Benin City, he explicitly warned that any cabinet member arriving at weekly Executive Council (Exco) meetings without the Tinubu-branded cap would be turned away.
Okpebholo, who attributed his electoral victory to Tinubu’s support, said loyalty to the president must reflect even in appearance.
He said: “This could not have happened if we did not have a responsible president. We have done many elections here, and the major problem we have had is that the president is not with us, but today we say thank you.
“I will not forgive any commissioner who is not wearing this cap. In our exco meetings, if you are not wearing a suit and you are coming to the meeting without this Asiwaju cap, you will go back.”
The governor urged the commissioners to see their appointments as a call to serve the people rather than an opportunity for self-enrichment.
He also said he would not tolerate corruption in the government, adding that their appointment is not for self-enrichment.
The governor added: “You have been carefully screened and confirmed by the State House of Assembly purely on merit. Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State.
“While I congratulate you on your deserved elevation, I want to warn that your appointment is not for personal enrichment. You are not here for money-making, but for service, for sacrifice, and for a better life for Edo people.”
“I hereby call on you to brace up for action, as your success will be measured by your impact in bringing about better services and opportunities to our people.
“May I remind you that this administration has zero tolerance for corruption and you’re expected to display discipline, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose.
“Most importantly, I expect loyalty to the people of Edo State. You must always remember that History will judge us for our actions and not our intentions.”
