Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, cancelled the commissioning of the New Edo Line, a transport company that has been moribund for the past 15 years.
The commissioning was cancelled after guests had arrived at the venue.
It was a few minutes before midday that guests at the venue were informed of the cancellation to honour the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Sources said Governor Okpebholo was reminded of the implication of holding such a ceremony at a time the country is mourning and national flags are flying at half-mast.
The Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State, in a statement, condemned what it termed the callous and insensitive jamboree organised by the Edo State Government at a time the nation was mourning the passing of former President Buhari.
It said it was disturbing and disrespectful that while Nigerians were still coming to terms with the loss of a prominent national figure, “the Edo State Governor and his associates chose to throw a public celebration complete with a live band—dancing and revelling, as if in mockery of the moment.”
Spokesman for the Edo PDP, Chris Nehikhare, said the shameful display not only reflects a gross insensitivity to the mood of the nation but also dishonoured the memory of a man who remained a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Regardless of former President Buhari’s stance during the 2020 elections, his passing deserved solemnity, not celebration. Especially when he insisted that the democratic process must not be compromised or interfered with.
The Edo PDP extends its heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Buhari family, and all Nigerians on the passing of an uncommon democrat, patriot, and elder statesman.”
