BENIN CITY – The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, made headlines on Monday by defying official statements from the state government as he inspected several high-profile ongoing projects. These included the multi-billion naira Radisson Blu hotel, the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA), and the reconstruction of roads in Okada Avenue and parts of Central Road. Shaibu declared his commitment to continue performing his duties as deputy governor despite the government’s warnings.
The state government issued a statement cautioning Shaibu against actions that could disrupt governance and emphasized the importance of adhering to the law at all times. The government urged him to avoid any activities that might violate existing regulations.
During his site visit to the MOWAA, Shaibu addressed journalists, stating that while the contractor reported the project was 80% completed, he harbored concerns about its location. “This is supposed to be a Central Hospital for the people, not just a museum,” he remarked, indicating his preference for prioritizing health infrastructure over cultural projects.
At the Radisson Blu site, Shaibu expressed satisfaction with the scope of work but insisted on ensuring that the major projects initiated by the previous administration were progressing smoothly. His inspection tour highlighted his intention to stay actively involved in governance, stating, “A new sheriff is in town, and we must hand over to him.”
Addressing his status amidst ongoing tensions with Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration, Shaibu remarked, “We should not respond to people in exile who release press statements. I have resumed my duties, and the issue of reinstatement should be a thing of the past. Judgment has been made, and we should move forward.”
He further clarified, “The office of the Deputy Governor is not under Obaseki. It is an office created by the Constitution. I am the deputy governor, and my role is clearly defined.” He asserted that he would be traveling around the state over the next two weeks to inspect projects, starting with Edo South, followed by Central and Northern regions.
“My duty is to discharge my responsibilities as deputy governor,” Shaibu emphasized. “I am on the ground and not in exile.” He acknowledged that while administrative issues needed resolution at various sites, his focus remained on ensuring that projects were completed and properly handed over to the next administration.
In response to Shaibu’s actions, the Special Adviser on Media Projects to Governor Obaseki, Crusoe Osagie, stated, “Shaibu, just like any private citizen, can take a tour around the exceptional projects of Governor Godwin Obaseki. However, both Philip Shaibu and the security agencies should avoid actions that violate laws and the constitution.”
Osagie urged Shaibu to exercise patience and wait for the Appeal Court to resolve his ongoing legal matters, reiterating the need for him to respect the authority of the law. The government reassured the citizens of Edo State that it would ensure their safety and the protection of lives and property in accordance with the law.
As tensions continue between Shaibu and the Obaseki administration, the unfolding situation raises questions about governance in Edo State and the potential implications for future projects and political dynamics. With Shaibu actively engaging with ongoing initiatives, all eyes are on how this conflict will shape the landscape of Edo politics in the coming weeks.
