In a bid to safeguard his position as Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu has taken legal action, seeking protection from potential impeachment and removal from office by his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki. The escalating tension between the two has raised concerns about the stability of the state’s leadership and governance.
In a recent court filing at the Federal High Court in Abuja, Shaibu requested an interlocutory injunction to prevent harassment, intimidation, or embarrassment. This injunction would allow him to carry out his duties effectively, including attending State Executive Council meetings.
The move comes as a precautionary measure to ensure that he can fulfill his responsibilities without any hindrance.
The roots of the conflict between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu can be traced back to a viral video showing Shaibu alongside Governor Obaseki’s predecessor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, during the National Assembly inauguration in Abuja. This incident seems to have sparked a strain in their working relationship, leading to a series of disagreements and differences in approach.
The motion of notice, filed on July 28, 2023, specifically seeks an order of interlocutory injunction to restrain the respondents or their agents from obstructing Shaibu’s functions as Deputy Governor until the substantive suit is resolved.
Among the respondents listed in the suit are the Inspector General of Police, State Security Service (also known as the Department of State Services), Governor of Edo State, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, and Chief Judge of Edo State.
Reports have emerged, suggesting that Governor Obaseki excluded Shaibu from crucial meetings, including summoning all members of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state House of Assembly, which further fueled speculations about possible impeachment. Such actions only exacerbate the existing tensions and raise concerns about the smooth functioning of the state government.
Efforts to reconcile the two leaders by a former deputy governor of the state, Chief Mike Ogiadomhe, reportedly yielded no positive results. The lack of resolution further underscores the complexity of the situation and the need for legal intervention to protect the Deputy Governor’s rights and responsibilities.