Edo Deputy Governor Shaibu Denied Entry to Old Office Amidst Rising Tensions – BENIN CITY – In a recent dramatic episode that has grabbed headlines, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, was denied access to his old office at the Government House on Dennis Osadebey Avenue, GRA, Benin City. This development follows a series of events marking a growing rift between Governor Obaseki and his deputy.
On Monday, accompanied by his security aides, Shaibu arrived at the Governor’s Office intending to ‘confront the governor in his office’ and possibly force a face-off. Instead, he found the gate to his office securely locked. The Deputy Governor expressed his astonishment, stating, “Up till now, I don’t have any official communication that I should relocate. The only people that have official communication are my civil servants.” He further lamented his situation during a phone call, stating, “As I am speaking to you now, I am standing by the gate.”
It has come to light that last week, a directive, allegedly from the office of the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, was issued to the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor. This directive instructed Shaibu to move to a new office located at No 7, Dennis Osadebey Avenue. However, sources close to the Deputy Governor have expressed concerns about the state of the new premises, describing it as abandoned and in desperate need of renovation.
This relocation controversy is just the latest chapter in the ongoing tension between the state’s top officials. Rumors have circulated regarding plans to impeach Deputy Governor Shaibu, although the Edo Assembly has categorically denied such intentions. Furthermore, Governor Obaseki recently accused Shaibu of orchestrating a coup against him.
Despite the turmoil, Shaibu remains resolute in his commitment to the Governor, emphasizing their close relationship. During a recent thanksgiving service celebrating the 32nd anniversary of Edo State, Shaibu remarked, “He is my elder brother and boss and I don’t think I should talk about anything [negative].” He added, “My loyalty to the governor remains absolute. I am also declaring my unalloyed solidarity and loyalty to the governor and nothing more.”
The unfolding events between the Governor and his deputy have the entire state watching closely, awaiting the next development in this political saga.