The Edo State Government has alerted the public to a purported plan by reinstated Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, to forcibly enter the Edo State Government House on Monday, September 30.
This development comes despite the government’s filing of a stay of execution appeal against Justice J. K. Omotosho’s ruling, which ordered Shaibu’s reinstatement, according to Politics Nigeria.
In a statement issued late Saturday, Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, called on the Inspector General of Police and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene.
The government warned that Shaibu’s alleged plan could lead to chaos, citing a previous attempt that resulted in the death of a police officer.
The government disclosed that its legal team has already written to the IGP and other relevant authorities, informing them of the appeal for a stay of execution regarding Justice Omotosho’s ruling.
The government urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the state does not descend into anarchy because of one person’s ambition.
The development has sparked tensions in the state, with many calling for calm and respect for the rule of law.
Part of the statement read, “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 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.”
” All actions relating to the enforcement and/or execution of the judgment of Honourable Justice J. K. Omotosho in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/478/2024 should be stayed pending the hearing and determination of the motion for stay of execution/injunction pending appeal,” Osagie stated.
“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.
