Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, has sought legal recourse from the Federal High Court in Abuja to shield himself from potential impeachment and removal from his position by Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In his court application, Shaibu has asked for an interlocutory injunction to safeguard him from any form of harassment, intimidation, or embarrassment, thereby enabling him to fulfill his responsibilities as the deputy governor, which includes participation in State Executive Council meetings.
The rapport between Governor Obaseki and his deputy has reportedly soured over recent months. The discord purportedly started when a video of Shaibu with Obaseki’s predecessor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, at the National Assembly inauguration in Abuja became public. Following this incident, the deputy governor has allegedly been subjected to degrading and humiliating treatment by Governor Obaseki.
It has been reported that Governor Obaseki called a meeting of all members of the Edo State House of Assembly from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at his residence, but Shaibu was conspicuously left out, exacerbating their strained relationship. Shaibu’s attempt to join the meeting was thwarted by the Department of State Services (DSS) personnel, who stated he was not on the guest list.
While attempts have been made to mend the relationship between the governor and deputy governor, the tension remains. Allegedly, Governor Obaseki has accused Shaibu of fraternizing with opponents such as Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Lawrence Oka. Furthermore, the deputy governor was accused of referencing the Oba of Benin to the Italian Embassy without the governor’s consent and visiting the family of a deceased prominent Chief of the Benin Kingdom without approval.
Despite Shaibu’s assertion in June 2023 that he was not at odds with Obaseki, his recent court case indicates a different story. He is seeking legal protection from potential political repercussions and is determined to maintain his position as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.
