Tension Rises as Shaibu Announces Resumption; Edo Government Labels Him an Impostor

A wave of tension swept through government circles on Monday as Comrade Philip Shaibu, the court-reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, announced his resumption of office. Shaibu, in a brief broadcast, stated that he was resuming duties in compliance with a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that nullified the impeachment process against him. He also mentioned informing Governor Godwin Obaseki of his return to office and called for the restoration of his aides, although he noted he had not received any response.

Shaibu further warned banks against conducting transactions with the office of the deputy governor without his explicit approval, asserting that any such dealings would be illegal and void.

Edo Government’s Response

In response, the Edo State Government, through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, dismissed Shaibu’s claims, branding him an impostor. The government urged the public to ignore Shaibu’s statements, emphasizing that he is not the deputy governor of the state.

Following Shaibu’s broadcast, security presence was notably increased around the office of the deputy governor on Osadebey Avenue. The road leading to the office was blocked, with two gun-mounted unmarked black Hilux vans and several armed security personnel positioned at strategic points.

Shaibu’s Statement

Shaibu, in his broadcast, directed all staff of the deputy governor’s office to resume work immediately, warning that failure to do so would result in sanctions. He asserted that his office was never vacant and that any transactions carried out in his absence were illegal.

Government’s Clarification

The Edo State Government, in its statement, placed security agencies on alert, warning of potential breaches of peace and holding Shaibu responsible for any security incidents arising from his actions. The government clarified that the issue of Shaibu’s reinstatement was still under judicial review, with the next court hearing scheduled for September 24, 2024.

The statement emphasized that Omobayo Marvelous Godwins remains the legitimate deputy governor of Edo State and that any correspondence from Shaibu should be regarded as a forgery. The government cautioned institutions and organizations against dealing with Shaibu, stating that anyone who does so does so at their own risk.