Drama unfolds at Edo govt house as security denies Shaibu access to Obaseki

A dramatic incident took place at the Edo State Government House, involving security personnel who prevented Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu from approaching Governor Godwin Obaseki during a public event on Sunday.

Images of the incident circulated on social media platforms, capturing Governor Obaseki and his wife seated while a security aide stood in front of them, restricting access during the Interdenominational Thanksgiving Church Service commemorating Edo’s 32nd anniversary. The event was held at the Festival Hall, Government House.

This situation is believed to be linked to the recent strain in the relationship between Deputy Governor Shaibu and Governor Obaseki, stemming from rumors about Shaibu’s alleged gubernatorial ambitions in 2024. These rumors surfaced following his return from a vacation in the United States.

Addressing the incident, Deputy Governor Shaibu reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Governor Obaseki, emphasizing that his loyalty is independent of his personal political aspirations. He also referred to the governor as his elder brother.

He stated, “My loyalty to the governor remains absolute. I see that everybody is in solidarity. I am also in solidarity with the governor. I am also declaring my unalloyed loyalty to the governor and nothing more.”

Regarding the issues that have arisen, particularly during his absence, Shaibu chose not to elaborate, preferring to address any concerns privately with the governor rather than through media channels.

Governor Obaseki’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sylvester Okungbowa, responded to the incident by clarifying that the governor was not involved in the security personnel’s actions. Okungbowa stated, “Whatever happened at the Church service was not at the behest of the Governor, neither was he aware of what the security aides were doing; in fact, the security aides were doing their job.”

He further explained that the Church service was a public event, and the security personnel were fulfilling their duty to ensure the governor’s safety.

This incident sheds light on the underlying tensions within the state’s political landscape, drawing attention to both the loyalty dynamics and the security protocols in place for public events involving high-ranking officials.