Philip Shaibu, the embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State, made a forceful return to his office on Monday, asserting his authority and directing all staff to resume their duties immediately. This development follows the recent Federal High Court ruling that reinstated Shaibu after his impeachment by the Edo State House of Assembly.
In a video message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Shaibu confirmed his resumption, stating, “In adherence to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, I announce my official resumption to the office. God Bless Edo State, God Bless Nigeria.” His return to office marks a significant turn in the ongoing political rift with Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Shaibu, who had been locked in a power struggle with Obaseki, warned that any staff member failing to report to the office of the deputy governor would face serious consequences. He underscored the court’s judgment, emphasizing that his office was never legally vacant, and instructed banks to refrain from any financial transactions without his direct approval to avoid illegalities.
Adding to the tense atmosphere, Shaibu expressed deep sorrow over the recent killing of a police officer attached to the Edo APC governorship candidate. The officer was murdered shortly after Shaibu’s return to the state. The Deputy Governor assured that the suspects involved in the heinous act have been apprehended.
Shaibu also disclosed that he has sought the governor’s approval to reinstate his aides, although he is yet to receive a response. This request comes as part of his efforts to restore normalcy to the deputy governor’s office following his controversial impeachment on July 10, 2024, and subsequent legal battles.
The political drama in Edo State reached a boiling point when the Appeal Court in Abuja reinstated Shaibu on August 5, 2024, overturning the impeachment decision. Despite the reinstatement, tensions remain high as Shaibu resumes his role amid ongoing disputes with the state government.
