The Edo State Government has raised a grave alarm regarding the reinstated deputy governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, who is reportedly planning to invade the Edo State Government House on Monday, September 30, to enforce his purported reinstatement.
This announcement comes despite a stay of execution appeal that has been filed to challenge Justice J. K. Omotosho’s ruling regarding Shaibu’s position.
In a statement issued late Saturday, Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, urged the Inspector General of Police and concerned citizens to intervene and dissuade Shaibu from what he described as a “devious plot.”
Osagie emphasized that such an action could lead to chaos, recalling the violent incident that occurred during Shaibu’s previous attempt, which resulted in the death of a police officer.
He warned that any move to forcibly enter the Government House would not only disrupt the peace but could also escalate tensions within the state.
According to him, “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.
“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 to anarchy because of the ambition of one man. The last time Shaibu attempted to do this, it led to the death of a police officer. We believe that is one death too many and it is only wise for us to prevent a repeat of such.”
Osagie added that the government lawyers have written to the IGP and other stakeholders, highlighting the fact that “all actions relating to the Enforcement and/or execution of the judgement of Honourable Justice J. K. Omotosho in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/478/2024 be stayed pending the hearing and determination of the Motion for Stay of Execution/Injunction Pending Appeal so as not to foist a situation of helplessness on the Court of Appeal and render the Order nugatory in the case that the application is granted.”
He added that the appeal case raises special circumstances and substantial arguable grounds in respect of which the Court ought to grant the application as this will ensure that the plaintiff/respondent (Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu) does nothing to cause a breach of the peace or break down of law and order in Benin City and Edo State.
