The Edo State Government has raised an alarm over an alleged plan by the reinstated Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, to forcibly enter the State Government House on Monday, September 30, 2024.
The move, purportedly intended to enforce Shaibu’s reinstatement, has sparked serious concerns about potential unrest in the state.
Despite a stay of execution appeal filed against the ruling of Justice J.K. Omotosho, which reinstated Shaibu, the government has raised concerns about the deputy governor’s intentions.
Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, issued a statement late Saturday, calling on the Inspector General of Police and the public to intervene in what he described as a “devious plot.”
Osagie emphasized that such an action could lead to chaos, recalling a previous incident when Shaibu’s attempt to forcibly enter the Government House resulted in the tragic death of a police officer. He warned that any attempt to repeat this would not only disrupt the peace but could escalate tensions across the state.
“We want to draw the attention of the Inspector General of Police to the intelligence we have gathered regarding a planned move by the erstwhile Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, to forcefully enter the Edo State Government House to purportedly enforce the ruling of Justice J. K. Omotosho,” Osagie stated.
He continued, “The stay of execution is still pending at the Court of Appeal, and we appeal to the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the state does not descend into anarchy because of the ambition of one man. The last time Shaibu attempted this, it led to the death of a police officer. One death is one too many, and it is imperative we prevent a repeat of such a tragedy.”
Osagie also disclosed that government lawyers had officially written to the Inspector General of Police and other key stakeholders, urging them to stay all actions relating to the enforcement of Justice Omotosho’s ruling. He stressed that any attempt to carry out the judgement before the appeal is heard could undermine the court’s authority and provoke unrest.
The government insists that the appeal raises significant legal issues and argues that the Court of Appeal should allow the motion for a stay of execution. This, they believe, would prevent any actions that could lead to a breakdown of law and order in Benin City and across Edo State.
The situation remains tense as the state awaits developments in the ongoing legal and political saga.