Reinstated Edo State deputy governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, resumed full official duties on Monday following his legal victory over Governor Godwin Obaseki’s failed stay of execution order in his impeachment case.
Shaibu began his duties with an inspection of on-going State government projects in Benin City.
Accompanied by aides and security details, the deputy governor visited the Raddisson Blu Hotel, inspected work on Central Road, and toured the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) — all government-funded projects.
Before continuing with the inspections, Shaibu also had a private meeting with Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Edwin Iwo-Nemi.
This marks Shaibu’s first major public appearance after the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Omotosho, reinstated him as deputy governor. He expressed confidence in his position, dismissing claims by Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, that his inspections violated court orders related to his impeachment.
Speaking to reporters, Shaibu dismissed Governor Obaseki’s absence, implying that Obaseki’s decision to go on vacation was an escape after the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) defeat in the recent gubernatorial election.
“I am not responding to people in exile,” Shaibu remarked, referring to Obaseki’s departure from the State.
Shaibu emphasised that his reinstatement was now a settled issue. “Judgement has been made. We should move forward,” he said, before pointing to the more pressing concern: “The issue is if I can work with Obaseki. Can I work with him? I can work with him, but he cannot work with me.”
He further clarified the constitutional basis of his office, stating, “The Office of the Deputy Governor is not an office under Obaseki. It’s an office created by the Constitution. You should understand the difference between the Office of the Governor and the Office of the Deputy Governor.”
Shaibu also confirmed his intention to inspect projects across Edo South, Central, and North senatorial districts over the coming weeks. He brushed aside Nehikhare’s objections, stating his focus was on completing his duties and ensuring a smooth handover to the next administration.
“My own duty as deputy governor is to discharge my duties. I am on ground and not on exile. A new sheriff is in town, and we must hand over to him,” he concluded.
The political tensions between Shaibu and Obaseki have continued to escalate, casting uncertainty over the final months of the administration’s tenure as Edo prepares for a new governor.
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