Edo State’s Government House witnessed a mild drama on Sunday, as security personnel prevented Deputy Governor Rt. Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu from approaching Governor Mr. Godwin Obaseki during a public event.
The incident occurred at the Interdenominational Thanksgiving Church Service held at the Festival Hall, Government House, in celebration of Edo’s 32nd year anniversary. As the Deputy Governor attempted to greet the Governor following his return from vacation in the United States, security personnel, attached to the Governor’s Office, intervened and blocked his way.
Defending the Governor’s position, Chief Press Secretary Mr. Sylvester Okungbowa stated that the security aides were carrying out their duties to safeguard their principal, asserting that the Governor was unaware of the Deputy Governor’s intent to approach him.
Despite the obstruction, Shaibu demonstrated his respect for Governor Obaseki by bowing from a distance before returning to his seat. It was noted that no seat had been reserved for the Deputy Governor in the Governor’s sitting row, and he had to find a chair in a different part of the hall.
Addressing reporters after the ceremony, Deputy Governor Shaibu reiterated his unwavering loyalty to Governor Obaseki, referring to him as his elder brother. Shaibu clarified that any disagreements he might have with the Governor were private family matters, and he would refrain from discussing them in the media. He affirmed that personal ambition did not undermine his loyalty, maintaining his full support for Governor Obaseki’s leadership.
He stated, “I am well brought up and from my Christian background, when you take a vow (with God), you must fulfil it… I will continue to support Godwin Obaseki as the Governor of Edo State from the beginning to the end.”
The dispute between the two Edo political leaders has escalated to legal action, with Shaibu seeking protection from the Federal High Court in Abuja to prevent impeachment. Governor Obaseki had accused Shaibu of being overly ambitious and even suggested that the Deputy Governor might consider orchestrating a coup against him. Shaibu, however, refuted these claims, affirming his loyalty and commitment to Governor Obaseki’s administration. The situation continues to unfold amid the backdrop of a complex political landscape in Edo State.
