The Edo State House of Assembly has issued an impeachment notice to the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, amidst escalating tensions with his superior, Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The rift between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu has been brewing for some time now, with accusations and counter-accusations flying between the two political figures. Last August, Governor Obaseki accused Shaibu of harboring ambitions to succeed him and allegedly conspiring with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to undermine him.
During an address to stakeholders, Governor Obaseki expressed bewilderment at Shaibu’s apparent eagerness to assume the gubernatorial mantle without prior consultation. He emphasized the constitutional distinction between the roles of governor and deputy governor, asserting his authority as the state’s chief executive.
Shaibu’s candidacy further complicated matters when he emerged as the victor in a parallel primary election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while Governor Obaseki’s preferred candidate, Asue Ighodalo, secured victory in another primary. The ensuing dispute within the PDP has now escalated to the legal realm, with the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary confirming their readiness to defend their position in court.
Despite the mounting pressure, Shaibu remains resolute in his pursuit of justice, denouncing what he perceives as betrayal by Governor Obaseki. In a candid interview, he lamented the governor’s failure to support his candidacy despite his significant contributions to Obaseki’s political fortunes, both financially and structurally.
Shaibu’s sentiments echo a broader narrative of political intrigue and personal betrayal, underscoring the precarious nature of alliances in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the power struggle intensifies, the fate of Edo State hangs in the balance, with implications extending far beyond its borders.
