Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has sparked a major buzz online after making a grand appearance at an All Progressives Congress (APC) meeting held in Ekiti State, accompanied by his official Senior Special Assistant (SSA), who also serves as his personal hypeman.
The governor’s arrival immediately turned heads as his hypeman passionately cheered and hailed him with electrifying chants, hyping up the atmosphere as if it were a music concert. The moment, captured on camera, spread rapidly across social media, drawing both laughter and disbelief from Nigerians.
In the now-viral footage, the hypeman could be seen delivering energetic praises and rhythmic chants as Governor Okpebholo walked into the venue. The unusual display left attendees amused and stunned, as the event suddenly took on the mood of a live show rather than a formal political gathering.
Observers have described the incident as a reflection of how Nigeria’s political landscape is increasingly merging with pop culture and entertainment. Many believe the trend of infusing showmanship, hype, and social media appeal into politics highlights a new strategy among leaders to connect with younger citizens who value charisma and energy as much as policy and governance.
Nigerians react with humour and disbelief
The internet exploded with reactions as social media users shared the clip with humorous and sarcastic captions. One user commented, “Na only for Nigeria hypeman dey collect government appointment,” mocking the idea of having a hypeman as part of a governor’s official entourage.
Another wrote, “Hypeman dey there to shout ‘Energy!’ while citizens dey shout ‘Economy!’” — a witty jab at the current economic struggles faced by many Nigerians. Yet another user added, “This governor no dey move without soundtrack. If he dey go meeting, hypeman dey follow. Politics don turn concert.”
Some netizens, however, expressed disappointment over the spectacle, saying it undermines the seriousness expected of political leadership. “I’m catching shame on their behalf,” one person said, while another joked, “This hype pass club hype men. I swear government don turn showbiz.”
Despite the mixed reactions, the video has remained one of the most shared clips of the week, fueling debates about whether Nigerian leaders are now prioritizing image and entertainment value over substance and governance.
Blending politics with pop culture
Governor Okpebholo, who recently assumed office, has quickly gained attention for his lively and youthful approach to politics. Known for his energetic appearances and entourage of enthusiastic aides, he has cultivated a public image that combines political authority with pop-culture appeal.
Political analysts suggest that the inclusion of a hypeman in his official team could be a calculated move to engage younger demographics who are more responsive to social media trends, viral content, and charismatic presentation. In a digital age where perception drives engagement, leaders like Okpebholo seem to be leveraging entertainment as a political communication tool.
Still, critics warn that while blending governance with entertainment may seem harmless, it risks trivializing public office and shifting focus away from pressing policy matters. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that such creativity brings politics closer to the people, making it more relatable and less rigid.
Watch the video below…
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo took his SSA’s "hypeman" to Ekiti State during APC meeting🧎👀👀 pic.twitter.com/jj7kt2IoZE
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) October 28, 2025