Edo State Government Accuses Deputy Gov of Impersonation, Urges Public Disregard

In a sensational development, the Edo State Government has accused Philip Shaibu of impersonating the state’s deputy governor, urging the public to disregard him and any correspondence attributed to his official capacity.

Shaibu, who claims to be the reinstated deputy governor of the state, had earlier announced his return to duty and directed his staff to do likewise. However, the government’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Osa Nehikhare, described Shaibu’s action as a “clear case of impersonation,” stating that it is not his duty to carry out correspondence without proper authorization.

The commissioner explained that any correspondence from Shaibu would be considered a forgery and that members of the public who deal with him do so at their own risk.

Read also: Reinstated Edo Deputy Gov Resumes Duty, Directs Staff To Follow Suit

The Edo State Government has also filed a motion, along with the Edo House of Assembly, to challenge the purported reinstatement by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court. According to the commissioner, the next hearing has been scheduled for September 24, 2024.

In the meantime, the government warns that any security breach in the state will be attributed to Shaibu and therefore urges security agencies to take necessary precautions.

The authenticity of Shaibu’s reinstatement is still under the court’s scrutiny, with the government firm in its stance that the current holder of the office, Omobayo Marvelous Godwins, remains the authorized deputy governor.

As tensions rise, the Edo State Government has made it clear that it will spare no effort in ensuring that the integrity and security of the state are maintained. Only time will tell how this drama plays out, but one thing is certain – all eyes are on the courts and Edo State.