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The Edo State Government has warned Philip Shaibu against impersonating Omobayo Marvellous Godwins, the Deputy Governor. The Edo State…

The Edo State Government has warned Philip Shaibu against impersonating Omobayo Marvellous Godwins, the Deputy Governor. The Edo State House of Assembly had on 8 April impeached Shaibu as deputy governor over alleged disclosure of government secrets. While Justice James Omotosho, the presiding judge of the Federal High Court, had on 17 July voided Shaibu’s impeachment and ordered his reinstatement, the judgement is currently under appeal by the Edo State House of Assembly. Mr Shaibu announced his official resumption of office in a post on X. However, the Edo State Government said Shaibu’s action was a “clear case of impersonation.”

The political climate in Edo State is becoming increasingly charged, particularly due to the ongoing controversy surrounding Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. It shows no signs of abating. Mr Shaibu’s recent declaration of intent to return to office has been met with strong criticism from the state government, which has labelled his actions as “impersonation,” further intensifying the political drama. A review of similar cases in other states over the past decade indicates that successfully impeaching a duly elected deputy governor is difficult. On the positive side, the current administration’s tenure ends in a few months, so relief is not far away. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) bloc, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, is now at a critical juncture. The opportunity to solidify their position as the dominant political force in Edo State hinges on their ability to communicate their vision and policies to the electorate effectively. Mr Obaseki’s administration, known for its commitment to corporate governance and sustainable development, sharply contrasts with the APC candidate, who is entrenched in the traditional political structures and patronage networks that have long shaped the state’s political landscape. If the PDP can successfully engage voters and address their pressing concerns, they stand a chance of countering any momentum the APC might gain from Shaibu’s potential support for the APC candidate. A robust campaign that resonates with the electorate would reinforce Obaseki’s leadership and elevate the PDP’s reputation as a stable and reliable alternative for governance in the state.