The Edo State Government has accused Philip Shaibu of impersonating the deputy governor, warning institutions and organizations to disregard any correspondence from him in that capacity.
Shaibu’s reinstatement by a Federal High Court in Abuja on July 17 has been appealed by the Edo Assembly, with a stay of execution pending the determination of the appeal. However, Shaibu claims the judgement is declarative and must be implemented before an appeal can be considered.
In a statement, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare declared, “Shaibu is not the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and any correspondence from him should be disregarded as a forgery.” The government has sought a stay of execution, suspension of the judgement, and a restraining order preventing Shaibu from presenting himself as deputy governor.
“In the interest of these organisations’ safety, we want to reiterate that Shaibu is not the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and any correspondence from him in that regard should be disregarded and considered a forgery.
“The issue of his purported reinstatement is still active in court, with the next hearing for the two separate motions filed by the State Government and the Edo House of Assembly challenging the purported reinstatement by Justice James Omotosho scheduled for 24 September 2024.
The government emphasized that Omobayo Marvelous Godwins remains the deputy governor, and any dealings with Shaibu constitute impersonation. Security agencies have been alerted to potential security breaches arising from Shaibu’s actions.
The next hearing is scheduled for September 24, 2024, as the legal battle for the deputy governorship intensifies.
