Edo Govt Criticizes Shaibu as He Resumes as Deputy Governor

• Comrade Philip Shaibu resumed his position as Edo Deputy Governor following a court ruling nullifying his impeachment by the state House of Assembly
• The Edo State Government accused Shaibu of impersonation, asserting that Omobayo Marvelous Godwins remains the legitimate Deputy Governor

The Edo State Government has expressed strong disapproval after Comrade Philip Shaibu resumed duty as the Deputy Governor following a Federal High Court ruling that nullified his impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly.

In a video shared on his X account, Shaibu called on his staff who had not yet returned to work to do so immediately, warning of consequences for those who failed to comply. He also cautioned banks against conducting transactions with the Office of the Deputy Governor without his consent, labelling such actions illegal.

Shaibu stated that his return to office was in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and emphasized that the court ruling indicated his position as Deputy Governor had never been vacant.

In response, the Edo State Government accused Shaibu of impersonation and urged the public to disregard his actions. A statement signed by Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner of Communication and Orientation, declared that Shaibu was no longer the Deputy Governor and that any correspondence from him should be considered fraudulent.

The government noted that the legal case concerning Shaibu’s reinstatement is still ongoing, with a court hearing scheduled for September 24. They asserted that Omobayo Marvelous Godwins remains the legitimate Deputy Governor.

Nehikhare also warned that any security breaches resulting from Shaibu’s actions would be his responsibility.

Shaibu, through his media office, maintained that the court ruling had permanently settled the issue of his impeachment, affirming that his position as Deputy Governor was never vacant and that any interference with his duties, including by the governor, was illegal. He described Godwins as the true impersonator and emphasized that the court’s decision must be respected until the scheduled hearing on September 24.