A new development has unfolded in the ongoing rift between Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, as the deputy governor was locked out of his office at the Government House in Benin, the state capital.

Philip Shaibu arrived at the Government House on Monday morning to find the gate leading to his office secured with chains and heavy padlocks.

This incident has further heightened the tensions between the two prominent figures in Edo State politics.

As Shaibu and his aides waited for nearly an hour, the deputy governor reportedly made efforts to reach Governor Obaseki without success.

An aide to Shaibu, who wished to remain anonymous, disclosed that the deputy governor had informed the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the State Services about the situation but received no official communication regarding the lockout.

During this period of uncertainty, Shaibu inquired about the reason behind the lockout from the Camp Commandant at the Government House, SP Ibrahim Babatunde.

The commandant indicated that it was a directive from higher authorities, particularly pointing to the Chief Security Officer in the government house, Wabba, as having a better understanding of the situation.

Shaibu made several attempts to contact Wabba Williams, who had promised to come to the scene but failed to do so during the deputy governor’s wait.

This development marks the latest episode in the ongoing tensions between Governor Obaseki and Deputy Governor Shaibu. While there have been speculations regarding plans to impeach Shaibu, the Edo State Assembly has denied such claims.

Last week, a letter reportedly originating from the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, instructed Shaibu to relocate his office to a new location at No. 7 Dennis Osadebey Avenue, GRA, Benin City.

However, sources close to the deputy governor asserted that the new office is in a state of disrepair and abandonment.

Governor Obaseki has accused his deputy of plotting against him, while Shaibu, at a recent event commemorating the state’s anniversary, described Obaseki as a brother and affirmed his loyalty to him, despite political differences.

“I am well brought up,” Shaibu stated, emphasizing his unwavering support for Governor Obaseki, even as he maintains his personal ambitions.