Philip Shaibu has officially resumed his duties as the deputy governor of Edo State, following a protracted legal battle that culminated in his reinstatement by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Shaibu, who had been ousted from his position in April, claimed that an assassination attempt was made on his life shortly after his return to Benin, the state capital.
The legal saga began in April 2024, when the Edo State House of Assembly impeached Shaibu, a move that was later nullified by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court.
The judge ruled that the impeachment was unlawful and politically motivated, ordering Shaibu’s immediate reinstatement and directing the Inspector-General of Police to restore his security detail.
Despite the court’s ruling, tensions in the state’s political landscape remain high. Following Shaibu’s removal, Governor Godwin Obaseki appointed Omobayo Godwins as the new deputy governor.
However, Shaibu’s reinstatement has sparked controversy, with Godwins insisting that he is the “authentic” deputy governor of Edo State.
In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Shaibu expressed gratitude for his reinstatement, describing it as a “testament to the divine grace of God and the steadfast prayer of all Nigerians.”
He went on to recount the harrowing experience of an alleged assassination attempt that occurred upon his return to Benin.
“Upon my arrival in Benin, a tragic event occurred as an assassination attempt was made on my life.
“Thankfully, the bullet missed its mark but, unfortunately, hit an armed policeman assigned to the APC governorship candidate for the upcoming September election,” Shaibu said, referring to the officer attached to Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate.
Shaibu also disclosed that he has formally requested Governor Obaseki’s approval for the reinstatement of his aides but has yet to receive any response.
Meanwhile, he has directed workers attached to the office of the deputy governor to resume their duties.
The unfolding drama in Edo State highlights the deep-seated political tensions as the state prepares for its upcoming elections in September.
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