Obaseki Denies Impeachment Plan, Points to Deputy’s Alleged Defection Scheme

The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has refuted claims of a planned impeachment of his deputy, Philip Shaibu.

In a press briefing held on Monday, Governor Obaseki suggested that the preemptive court action taken by Deputy Governor Shaibu to halt his purported impeachment was a response to his speculated plan to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Addressing journalists in Benin City during a visit by Edo North leaders, Governor Obaseki asserted that Shaibu had been engaged in negotiations to join the APC, actively interacting with key figures both at the national and state levels.

The governor emphasized that this court action has come as a surprise and disappointment, given the latitude he granted Shaibu to perform his duties as deputy governor.

Governor Obaseki stated, “Let me put it on record that I am not aware of any plot or any scheme to impeach the Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu. I have also checked and there was no such plan.”

He expressed his disappointment with the move, noting, “So, the court action taken, for me, is a thing of shock and disappointment. I am trying to reflect on the move made by somebody that I have given a broad latitude to do his work as deputy governor. So, for him to take this kind of action is shocking.”

Governor Obaseki revealed that discussions about Shaibu’s governorship ambitions never occurred between them. He explained, “The last time we spoke of my successor after the House of Assembly election, I did say that we should be patient and that our task is to try and finish well and conclude all our projects we started. It’s only when we do this right that we will have the support of the people for my successor.”

Speculating on the motives behind Shaibu’s court action, Obaseki suggested it was an effort to secure his position and switch parties. He said, “I believe that this action by him is a preemptive move to get a court order, keep his ticket and move to another party. I think it’s unfair for our party. We don’t need this sort of crisis. I have been getting calls all over the world and it’s rather sad that somebody who is part of an administration will do this to the administration because of his personal ambition.”

While Governor Obaseki expressed his disappointment, he also highlighted his broader concerns about the potential implications of such actions on the party and the state.

Meanwhile, in the State Assembly, the alleged impeachment move was not addressed as the plenary was adjourned. A group from Edo North, led by former Speaker of the House of Assembly Kabiru Adjoto, expressed their dismay at the situation. Adjoto criticized Deputy Governor Shaibu’s behavior and emphasized the loyalty of the Afemai people, urging Shaibu to cooperate and work for the greater good of the state.

As the political situation in Edo State continues to unfold, the actions and decisions of key figures like Deputy Governor Shaibu will undoubtedly impact the state’s political landscape and its relationship with the APC.