Heavy security has been deployed at the Edo State Government House (Osadebe Avenue) amid reports that Philip Shaibu is attempting to resume his position as Deputy Governor.
Shaibu was impeached by the Edo House of Assembly during a turbulent period in his relationship with Governor Godwin Obaseki.
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He subsequently challenged the impeachment in court, claiming that he was not given a fair hearing.
A Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice J. K. Omotosho, annulled the impeachment and ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement.
However, the state government has not complied with the ruling, stating that it has filed for a stay of execution.
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On Monday morning, civil servants and visitors were seen trekking long distances to their destinations after having to park their vehicles at a distance, as only security vehicles were allowed unhindered access to Osadebe Avenue.
A civil servant, who requested anonymity, expressed surprise at the heavy security presence around the government house.
On Sunday, Crusoe Osagie, the spokesperson for Governor Obaseki, issued a statement alleging that Shaibu had devised plans to invade the Government House to enforce his “purported” reinstatement, despite the pending stay of execution appeal.
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Osagie urged the Inspector General of Police and concerned citizens to intervene and prevent Shaibu’s alleged “devious plot,” warning that it could lead to chaos.
“We wish to alert the Inspector General of Police regarding intelligence about a planned move by Shaibu to forcibly enter the Edo State Government House in an attempt to enforce Justice J. K. Omotosho’s ruling,” Osagie stated.
He added, “The stay of execution is still pending at the Court of Appeal, and we implore the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the state does not descend into anarchy due to one man’s ambition. The last time Shaibu attempted this, it resulted in the death of a police officer—a tragedy we must prevent from happening again.”
In response, Shaibu’s spokesperson, Mr. Ebomhiana Musa, dismissed the allegations, asserting that Governor Obaseki has yet to realize that they have been rejected by the people of Edo State.
Musa stated, “Let it be clear that, unlike Governor Godwin Obaseki, Philip Shaibu is a peace-loving individual who believes in the rule of law and would never resort to violence. In the eyes of the law and the people of Edo State, Philip Shaibu remains the de jure and de facto Deputy Governor. We do not need to fight or struggle for what is rightfully ours.”
