Fawaz Adebisi
The governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki has reacted to a recent drama that unfolded during a church service commemorating the 32nd anniversary of Edo State’s creation, as security personnel attached to him blocked Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu from approaching his principal.
The incident, which occurred at the Government House in Benin, prompted Governor Obaseki to defend his security details, asserting their duty to safeguard his well-being.
During the service, Governor Obaseki, seated alongside his wife, Betsy, and Charles Aniagwu, a representative of the Delta State Governor, found himself at the center of attention when his deputy, Philip Shaibu, attempted to approach and greet him.
The deputy governor, who had not been officially invited to the church service, made his way towards Governor Obaseki, only to be stopped by security personnel within a two-meter radius of the governor.
The security operative, identified as a member of the Department of State Service (DSS), maintained a firm but friendly stance as Shaibu explained his intentions.
It was gathered that Governor Obaseki chose to look away as the interaction unfolded, and Deputy Governor Shaibu eventually returned to his seat, allowing the service to continue.
Responding to the incident, Governor Obaseki’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Andrew Okungbowa, clarified that the governor was unaware of the security aides’ actions and was not expecting the deputy governor’s greeting.
Okungbowa emphasized that the security personnel were merely carrying out their duty to ensure the governor’s safety during the public church event.
“The church is a public event, so the security aides had a duty to safeguard their principal,” stated Okungbowa.
He further affirmed that the governor was not responsible for the incident and was not informed of Deputy Governor Shaibu’s intention to greet him.
The encounter at the church service highlights the strained relationship between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu, stemming from differences in their gubernatorial ambitions.
However, despite their disagreements, Deputy Governor Shaibu reiterated his unwavering loyalty to Governor Obaseki.
Speaking to journalists at the event, he described the governor as his elder brother and pledged his full allegiance.
“My loyalty to Edo governor remains absolute. I see that everybody is doing solidarity. I am also in solidarity with the governor,” Shaibu stated.
He emphasized the importance of addressing any issues he might have with the governor privately rather than in the media, highlighting his commitment to maintaining a respectful and well-mannered approach.
“If I have issues with him (Obaseki), it is better settled at home and not in the media. I am well brought up,” he said.
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