From Tony Osauzo, Benin
To frustrate the reinstatement of restored deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, from resuming duty, over 100 armed men of the Edo State Security Network (ESSN), yesterday, took over the deputy governor’s office located on Osadebey Avenue in Benin City, outside the Government House.
The deputy governor whose April 8 impeachment by the House of Assembly was nullified by a Federal High, Abuja on Wednesday, was being expected by his supporters at the airport to arrive Benin yesterday (Thursday) to resume work in line with the court judgment.
But at the deputy governor’s office yesterday, stern-looking operatives of the state-owned security outfit took charge of security of the office, allowing no one to go in or out of the office.
One of Shaibu’s close associates, Sunny Okomayin, disclosed that on arrival, the deputy governor would move straight into his former office in the Government House.
“Shaibu is going to his office in the Government House as soon as he arrives in Benin. The court has ruled that he should be reinstated and that is what he will do,” he said.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Edo Governorship Campaign Council has hailed the nullification of Shaibu’s impeachment, saying it signifies the end of political and executive tyranny in our state.
According to a statement by the Director of Publicity of the Campaign Council, Orobosa Omo-Ojo,
“the madness that led to the reckless and unconstitutional actions of the Edo State House of Assembly with the support of Governor Godwin Obaseki marks the darkest political history of Edo State.
“We welcome back His Excellency, Rt. Honourable Comrade Philip Shaibu as he resumes office today to continue the work he was voted for by Edo people.
“By this development, our party the All Progressives Congress (APC) is reassured that the bedrock of our democracy remains the rule of law which can only be guaranteed by an independent judiciary with judges that can deliver judgements, independent of any political wind.
“As we march forward to reclaim the state for Edo people, we urge everyone to join the patriotic forces to enthrone the rule of all that Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo will usher in on November 12, 2024.”
Justice J. K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had set aside the impeachment of Shaibu.
Shortly after the judgment, the state government through the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, announced that it had appealed the ruling and filed a stay of execution on the judgement pending appeal.
Events leading to Shaibu’s travails with governor Godwin Obaseki and his subsequent impeachment, followed his indication of interest to contest for the state governorship.