Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has categorically denied any knowledge of imminent plans to impeach his deputy, Philip Shaibu. The Governor’s statement comes amidst circulating speculations suggesting that Deputy Governor Shaibu might face impeachment due to alleged involvement in anti-party activities.
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The announcement from Governor Obaseki was made in an official statement released on Monday. The speculation surrounding Philip Shaibu’s potential impeachment has sparked debates and concerns regarding his political fate.
Reports indicate that the deputy governor has reportedly obtained a court order in an attempt to thwart his anticipated impeachment. Governor Obaseki expressed his surprise and disappointment over this development, both in terms of its nature and the impact it could have on his party.
The Governor further revealed that Shaibu’s move to seek legal action was possibly pre-emptive, stemming from an alleged plan to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and subsequently run for the governorship of the state in the upcoming general elections. Allegedly, Shaibu has been actively engaging with influential figures within the APC at both the national and state levels, possibly negotiating his transition into the party.
Speaking to journalists during a visit by Edo North leaders in Benin City, Governor Obaseki emphasized that Shaibu had not communicated his gubernatorial aspirations to him. He indicated that the deputy governor was already in the process of finalizing his shift to the APC.
Obaseki stated, “I am not aware of any plot or any scheme to impeach the Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu. I have also checked and there was no such plan… So, the court action taken, for me, is a thing of shock and disappointment.”
He continued, “I believe that this action by him is a preemptive move to get a court order, keep his ticket and move to another party. I think it’s unfair for our party. We don’t need this sort of crisis… because of his personal ambition.”
The State Assembly, however, made no mention of any moves to impeach the deputy governor during its recent session on Monday. The legislative body adjourned plenary until August 14.
While this unfolds, a group from Edo North, led by former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Kabiru Adjoto, has criticized Deputy Governor Shaibu’s actions. The group accused him of causing embarrassment within the region and expressed their disappointment over his perceived attempts to govern the state at all costs.
Adjoto, addressing the media in Benin City, stated, “We are surprised and embarrassed by the behavior of Deputy Governor Shaibu in his ill-advised mission to govern the state by all means.”
In light of these developments, journalists attempted to reach Deputy Governor Shaibu for a response. However, his Chief Press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiana, stated that he was on medical leave and unavailable for comment.
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