2027: Edo council chairman threatens to evict drivers without APC-branded caps

In preparation for the 2027 general elections, Blessing Albert, the Chairman of Esan West Local Government Area in Edo State, has threatened to evict any driver who fails to wear an All Progressives Congress, APC-branded cap from motor parks in the region. This announcement was made by Albert during a visit to several motor parks in Ekpoma, the administrative headquarters of the council, as reported by DAILY POST.

Prior to this, Governor Monday Okpebholo had also issued a similar directive to commissioners during the 2025 swearing-in ceremony.

Albert's threat was witnessed in a widely circulated video where he addressed commercial drivers at various motor parks. He stated that if drivers are found wearing political materials not affiliated with the APC, they will be removed from the park, regardless of their personal relationship with him. To emphasize the seriousness of his directive, Albert personally distributed APC-branded caps to the drivers, clearly instructing them not to wear any other political party's materials.

Albert's directive is attributed to the governor's political mobilization efforts and the promise to provide support to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by delivering 2.5 million votes from Edo State in the 2027 presidential election. He encouraged the drivers to back the President and governor, citing the improvements in roads under the administration, which have benefited their businesses.

These improved roads have facilitated travel for commercial drivers to destinations like Onitsha, allowing them to return to Edo State and continue their daily operations. Additionally, Albert urged the drivers to support the government, emphasizing their responsibility in helping the governor fulfill his campaign promise.