The Edo State Government has accused Philip Shaibu of impersonating the state’s deputy governor.
The government says that Shaibu, who was recently reinstated as deputy governor, is not officially recognized as holding the position.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Osa Nehikhare, said, “It has come to the attention of the Edo State Government that the former Deputy Governor, Comr. Philip Shaibu, has been carrying out correspondence with different institutions and organizations both within and outside the State in a clear case of impersonation.”
Nehikhare urged the public to disregard any communications from Shaibu, explaining, “In the interest of the safety of these organizations, we want to restate that Shaibu is not the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and every correspondence from him in that regard should be disregarded and considered a forgery.”
He also mentioned that the issue of Shaibu’s reinstatement is still in court. The next hearing is scheduled for September 24, 2024. “The State through the Attorney General of Edo State and the Edo House of Assembly had in the motions sought an order for a stay of the execution of the purported reinstatement,” Nehikhare said. “Therefore, the status quo is that His Excellency, Omobayo Marvelous Godwins, remains the deputy governor of Edo State.”
Nehikhare warned that any interaction with Shaibu should be considered risky. “Anyone who deals with him does so at his or her own risk,” he added. Security agencies have been asked to monitor the situation and hold Shaibu accountable for any security issues that arise.
Meanwhile, Shaibu has resumed office and directed his staff to follow suit. He has also warned banks about the legality of transactions with the deputy governor’s office without his approval.
In a video broadcast, Shaibu said, “The judgment of the Federal High Court indicated that my office has never been vacant.”
Shaibu expressed his sorrow over the killing of a police officer linked to the Edo APC governorship candidate and mentioned that suspects have been arrested.
He also noted that he had requested the governor’s approval for the reinstatement of his aides but had not yet received a response.
