Edo State Governor, Obaseki Denies Impeachment Plan Against Deputy, Citing Preemptive Move for Defection

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki clarified that there is no intention to impeach his deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, and attributed Shaibu’s court action to preempt his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Obaseki addressed the situation during a press briefing in Benin City, joined by leaders of Edo North Senatorial District, who distanced themselves from Shaibu’s gubernatorial ambitions and cautioned him against contributing to state crisis.

Governor Obaseki stated that Shaibu has been actively engaging with senior figures in the APC, both at national and state levels, negotiating his entry into the party. Obaseki expressed shock and disappointment over Shaibu’s court action, characterizing it as preemptive given the deputy governor’s pursuit of personal ambitions within the APC.

Addressing the Edo North leaders, Obaseki shared his concerns regarding Shaibu’s actions, highlighting instances where their views clashed over local government leadership. He emphasized that Shaibu’s recent actions and consultations with opposition parties indicate uncertainty about his chances of securing the PDP’s governorship ticket for 2024.

Obaseki stressed that Shaibu’s actions have caused unnecessary crisis within the party and expressed his disappointment. He urged unity and solidarity within the PDP as the party embarks on local government campaigns.

In response, Edo North leaders led by former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Kabiru Ajoto, expressed their support for Governor Obaseki and distanced themselves from Shaibu’s gubernatorial aspirations. Ajoto stated that the people of Edo North stand with the governor and are concerned about the ongoing crisis. The leaders highlighted their efforts to reconcile Shaibu and Obaseki, which were rebuffed by Shaibu, leading them to voice their concerns publicly.

The situation underscores the political dynamics and tensions within the state, as well as the complexities of personal ambitions and party loyalty.