The Originality
By Comrade Robinson Akhenoba
The series of events and lies propagated by Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki and his media aides against Deputy Governor Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu paint a troubling picture of political manipulation and betrayal within the state government.
On June 13, 203, the governor and his aides falsely claimed that Shaibu had called a leader in APC to discuss speakership nominations, based on a video showing Shaibu celebrating with his friends and colleagues in Abuja during the National Assembly inauguration. This led to Obaseki becoming bitter and prevented Shaibu from attending a meeting at his residence to discuss the Edo State House of Assembly speakership nomination. Despite trying to contact the governor on that night after the thanksgiving service of the former speaker, Hon Marcus Onobun at the legislative quarters, Shaibu was denied access to the meeting and the governor’s plans to impeach him were revealed by those present.
Shaibu however, on hearing the news of his planned impeachment, took legal action to prevent his all parties involved and was then further marginalized by Obaseki, as evidenced by the assignment of a Director of State Security personnel to prevent him from exchanging pleasantries with the governor during a church service on August 27, 2023. The Chief Press Secretary also barred Shaibu’s media aides from attending the Edo @ 32 year celebration on August 28, where Shaibu left the venue with his aides amidst a lack of seating guests.
Despite Obaseki’s attempts to discredit him, Shaibu consulted with his people in Jattu on September 1 about potentially contesting the Edo State Governorship election. He also refuted claims of embezzling funds meant for people in Edo North, asserting his trustworthiness with public funds.
The governor further marginalized Shaibu by relocating his office outside the government house on September 15, 2023, and falsely claiming that Shaibu attempted to force his way into the governor’s office on September 18. The existence of CCTV cameras in the government house could provide evidence to counter these lies and showcase the unjust treatment of the deputy governor by the governor and his administration.
Overall, the detailed timeline of events highlights the deceitful actions taken by Governor Obaseki and his allies against Deputy Governor Shaibu, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability within the Edo State government.
Comrade Robinson Akhenoba is the writer and publisher of The Political Evangelist
AKHENOBA ROBINSON 