Uncertainty as Shaibu returns to work today; Obaseki may shift office

Politicians, leaders, aides and other observers of political activity in Edo State are watching with bated breath as Mr Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, returns to work today after a one-month leave.

The deputy governor’s decision to file a lawsuit against his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki, the state House of Assembly, and others to halt an alleged impeachment scheme sparked outrage in the state over the last three weeks.

The governor, as well as other political organisations and leaders, have criticised the idea, with the governor comparing it to his deputy plotting a coup.

Political observers have been waiting for today, and Shaibu’s Chief Press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiana, confirmed to Vanguard yesterday that his boss would resume today.

Shaibu had attended a thanksgiving service earlier in the day to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the referendum that resulted in the formation of Midwest Region, which eventually became Midwest State, Bendel State, and presently Edo and Delta states.

According to a source close to the governor, Obaseki is still in shock over his deputy’s actions, despite efforts by some political figures to settle it, and may open a new office outside Government House where he will handle official business.

It is unclear whether the governor will hold exco sessions in the new office, which is some 1,500 yards from the infrequently used Government House emergency gate.

Today, the governor will be joined by his Delta State counterpart, Sheriff Oborevwori, and other stakeholders from Delta and Edo states for a colloquium commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Referendum.

According to a statement issued by the state government’s Chief Press Secretary, Andrew Okungbowa, the colloquium is one of several activities planned to commemorate the referendum’s diamond anniversary, which will bring together leaders from the two states as well as other stakeholders to chart a course forward.