The Edo State Government has leveled serious accusations against Philip Shaibu, alleging that the former deputy governor is impersonating the current officeholder despite a heated legal battle surrounding his recent reinstatement. This conflict marks a significant escalation in the ongoing power struggle within the state’s political landscape.
The controversy began when a Federal High Court in Abuja reinstated Shaibu as the deputy governor of Edo State on July 17, 2024. The court’s decision came three months after the Edo State House of Assembly impeached him. Judge James Omotosho, who presided over the case, declared Shaibu’s impeachment illegal, ordering his immediate reinstatement. In addition, the court directed the Inspector General of Police to restore Shaibu’s security details and instructed that his salaries and allowances, which had been withheld since his removal in April, be paid in full.
However, the Edo State Government, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, has refused to accept the court’s ruling without a fight. The government has appealed the decision and sought a stay of execution, arguing that the legal process is ongoing and that the court’s judgment should not be implemented until the appeal is resolved. The appeal has been filed with the Federal High Court, and the government’s legal team has submitted motions to suspend the judgment and prevent Shaibu from presenting himself as the deputy governor until the matter is fully adjudicated.
Government Warns Against Unauthorized Actions
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, the Edo State Government accused Shaibu of impersonating the deputy governor, warning that any actions taken by him in that capacity should be considered illegitimate. Nehikhare emphasized that Shaibu’s actions could have serious legal and security implications and cautioned organizations and individuals against engaging with him in any official capacity.
“It has come to the attention of the Edo State Government that the former Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has been corresponding with various institutions and organizations both within and outside the State in a clear case of impersonation,” Nehikhare stated. “In the interest of these organizations’ safety, we want to reiterate that Shaibu is not the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and any correspondence from him in that regard should be disregarded and considered a forgery.”
Nehikhare further stated that the legal status of Shaibu’s reinstatement remains uncertain, as the case is still active in court. The next hearing, scheduled for September 24, 2024, will address the two separate motions filed by the Edo State Government and the Edo House of Assembly, challenging the court’s decision to reinstate Shaibu. The government is seeking an order to stay the execution of the judgment, a suspension of the ruling, and a restraining order to prevent Shaibu from acting as deputy governor until the appeal is resolved.
Security Concerns and Political Implications
The Edo State Government’s statement also highlighted potential security concerns associated with Shaibu’s actions. The government warned that any security breaches resulting from Shaibu’s claims to the deputy governorship would be his responsibility. Security agencies have been alerted to the situation and are closely monitoring developments to prevent any possible disruptions.
In the meantime, the Edo State Government has reaffirmed that Omobayo Marvelous Godwins remains the legitimate deputy governor of the state. The government has made it clear that any official correspondence or actions taken by Shaibu should be considered invalid and unauthorized.
As the legal battle continues, the political tension in Edo State shows no signs of easing. The outcome of the September court hearing will be crucial in determining the future of the state’s leadership and could have far-reaching implications for the broader political landscape in Nigeria.
Source: Punch
