A mild drama unfolded in Benin City on Wednesday as newly appointed commissioners in Edo State reportedly rushed to local capmakers to purchase President Bola Tinubu’s signature ‘Asiwaju cap’—a day after Governor Monday Okpebholo warned that any cabinet member without it would be locked out of meetings.
Uptown Press gathered that the scramble for the symbolic caps began shortly after the governor’s directive during Tuesday’s swearing-in ceremony for 19 new commissioners and State board members at the Government House.
Governor Okpebholo, addressing the appointees, made it clear that the Asiwaju cap represented loyalty and alignment with President Tinubu’s leadership.
“You see this cap I am wearing? I will not forgive any commissioner that is not wearing it,” he declared. “In EXCO, if you’re in traditional attire and not wearing this Asiwaju cap, you’re going back.”
The governor, who credited President Tinubu for his administration’s success in forming the new cabinet, stressed that his government would not tolerate corruption or indiscipline.
“Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage but as a call to serve the people of Edo State,” Okpebholo said. “My focus remains on service delivery and tangible results, not propaganda.”
Following the warning, several commissioners were seen at tailoring shops and cap stalls across Benin metropolis on Wednesday, seeking to secure the now high-demand headgear in time for the next Executive Council meeting.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
