The Edo State Government had accused reinstated Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu of plotting to storm the State Government House on Monday to enforce his reinstatement.
However, Shaibu’s Chief Press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiana, issued a statement on Sunday refuting the allegations.
The accusations stemmed from a court decision to reinstate Shaibu as deputy governor, despite a stay of execution appeal filed in response to Justice James Omotosho’s ruling at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, Crusoe Osagie, called on Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun and concerned citizens to prevent Shaibu’s alleged “plot.” Osagie warned that such actions could result in chaos, referencing the tragic loss of a police officer during a previous confrontation.
Osagie stated, “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 into anarchy because of the ambition of one man. The last time Shaibu attempted this, it led to the death of a police officer. We believe that one death is already too many, and it would be wise to prevent a recurrence.”
Osagie further mentioned that the government’s legal team had informed the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant authorities, emphasizing that any move to enforce the ruling before the appeal’s decision could complicate the court’s processes.
In response, Shaibu’s representative, Musa Ebomhiana, categorically denied the claims. “There is no iota of truth in it, please. They should know that the election has been lost and won. This is cheap blackmail and propaganda.”
Shaibu’s legal counsel, Andrew Emwanta, also dismissed the accusations, calling them “balderdash.”
Ebomhiana urged the government to accept the finality of the 2024 governorship election results, stating that Shaibu would not engage in any illegal activities.
The Edo State Government’s concerns come after Justice James Omotosho’s ruling, which was set to be challenged in court. The government seeks to prevent any actions that could lead to violence or unrest in the state.
