Edo State’s reinstated Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has firmly denied any involvement in Thursday’s attack in Benin that resulted in the death of Police Inspector Akor Onuh. Shaibu emphasized that he has resumed his duties and will be working from home to avoid conflicts.
Political Accusations and Legal Actions
In response to accusations from the state government claiming he orchestrated the attack near Benin Airport, Shaibu expressed his shock. He noted that he has refrained from calling for protests over the past year to avoid conflicts with state authorities. Shaibu also announced a N5 billion defamation lawsuit against Governor Godwin Obaseki, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Nehikhare, and Special Adviser to Governor Crusoe Osagie.
Shaibu accused Nehikhare and Osagie of not properly reviewing the court judgment that reinstated him before making public statements. He stated that the judgment is declarative and must be implemented before any appeals can proceed.
Shaibu’s Defense and Future Plans
Addressing the allegations, Shaibu questioned why armed thugs were waiting for him upon his peaceful arrival from Abuja. “I have already instituted a N5 billion suit against the governor, Nehikhare, and Osagie for defamation. They will be served next week,” Shaibu said.
He confirmed that he has resumed his duties, recalled his staff, and will operate from home to avoid further confrontations. “I remain the deputy governor. All salary and entitlements will be paid,” he added.
Shaibu’s decision to work from home is a strategic move to maintain his role while navigating the tense political landscape in Edo State.
Reactions and Broader Context
The accusations against Shaibu come at a time of significant political tension in Edo State. The incident at Benin Airport, which resulted in the tragic death of Police Inspector Akor Onuh, has intensified scrutiny of Shaibu and his relationship with Governor Obaseki. Shaibu’s denial of involvement and his subsequent legal actions indicate a deepening rift within the state’s political hierarchy.
The deputy governor’s decision to file a defamation suit for N5 billion highlights the severity of the accusations and his determination to clear his name. “They will be served next week,” Shaibu stated confidently, emphasizing his commitment to holding the accusers accountable.
Legal and Political Implications
Shaibu’s reinstatement as deputy governor came after a court ruling that declared his previous impeachment invalid. He pointed out that the court’s judgment is declarative, meaning it must be implemented before any appeal can be considered. This legal nuance has added complexity to the already fraught political atmosphere in Edo State.
The allegations against Shaibu and the subsequent legal battles are not isolated incidents but part of a broader power struggle within the state. The involvement of high-ranking officials like Commissioner Nehikhare and Special Adviser Osagie suggests that the dispute has significant implications for the state’s governance and stability.
Shaibu’s announcement that he will be working from home is a pragmatic decision aimed at avoiding further confrontations. By recalling his staff and resuming his duties from a distance, Shaibu seeks to fulfill his responsibilities while minimizing direct conflicts with other state officials.
“I remain the deputy governor,” Shaibu asserted, underscoring his determination to continue serving in his role despite the challenges. The assurance that all salary and entitlements will be paid reflects his confidence in the legal and administrative processes that reinstated him.
Source: Punch
