On Monday morning, heightened security measures were evident at the Edo State Government House on Osadebe Avenue. This increased presence followed reports suggesting that Philip Shaibu, the recently impeached Deputy Governor, intends to return to his office despite being removed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
Shaibu’s impeachment occurred against the backdrop of his intensifying conflict with Governor Godwin Obaseki, prompting him to contest the decision in court.
Shaibu contended that he was not given a fair hearing by the lawmakers prior to his impeachment. In a landmark decision, Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja invalidated the impeachment and mandated Shaibu’s reinstatement.
However, the Edo State government has not complied yet, citing an ongoing appeal for a stay of execution.
When Daily Trust reporters visited the Government House, they observed that only security vehicles were permitted to enter Osadebe Avenue. Civil servants and visitors had to park their cars farther away and walk to reach their destinations. This scene stirred concerns among civil servants who expressed surprise at the increased security measures in place.
In a statement released on Sunday, Crusoe Osagie, the spokesperson for Governor Obaseki, accused Shaibu of attempting to forcibly reclaim access to his office despite an ongoing appeal.
Osagie urged the Inspector General of Police and Nigerians to step in, characterizing Shaibu’s actions as a “recipe for chaos.”
“We seek to inform the Inspector General of Police about intelligence indicating Shaibu’s intention to forcefully enter the Edo State Government House, allegedly to enforce Justice J. K. Omotosho’s ruling.”
“The stay of execution is still awaiting a decision from the court of appeal. We urge the Inspector General of Police to ensure that our state does not fall into chaos due to one person’s ambition. The last time Shaibu attempted such actions, it resulted in the death of a police officer—an unnecessary and tragic loss. It would be prudent for all parties involved to prevent any recurrence,” he stated.
In response, Mr. Ebomhiana Musa, the spokesperson for Shaibu, denied the allegation and commented that Obaseki has yet to grasp that they have been rejected by the people of Edo.
We want to make it clear that, unlike Governor Godwin Obaseki, Philip Shaibu is a peace-loving individual who strongly believes in the rule of law and would never consider shedding innocent blood for any reason.
“As of now, according to the law and in the view of the honorable citizens of Edo State and Nigerians, Philip Shaibu holds both de jure and de facto status as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. There is no need for conflict or contention over what has been granted to us by God,” he stated.
