Edo State Government House, Osadebe Avenue—Heightened security measures were observed today as the Edo State Government prepares for potential unrest following reports that impeached Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu plans to return to office despite his removal by the Edo State House of Assembly.
Shaibu’s impeachment, rooted in a deepening conflict with Governor Godwin Obaseki, has sparked a legal battle. A recent ruling by Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja nullified the impeachment, ordering Shaibu’s reinstatement.
However, the Edo State government has not complied, citing an appeal for a stay of execution.
Witnesses reported only security vehicles were permitted access to the government premises, raising concerns among civil servants and visitors about the implications of the increased police presence.
In a statement, Crusoe Osagie, spokesperson for Governor Obaseki, warned of Shaibu’s alleged intentions to forcibly regain access to his former office.
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“We want to draw the attention of the Inspector General of Police to the intelligence we have gathered regarding a planned move by Shaibu to enter the Edo State Government House,” Osagie stated, labeling such actions a “recipe for chaos.” He recalled a previous incident where a police officer lost their life during a similar confrontation.
In contrast, Shaibu’s spokesperson, Ebomhiana Musa, refuted the claims, emphasizing Shaibu’s commitment to peace and the rule of law. “Philip Shaibu is a peace-loving man who firmly believes in the rule of law,” Musa asserted, underscoring that Shaibu is recognized as the legitimate Deputy Governor in the eyes of the law and the public.