On Wednesday, March 6, 2024, the Edo State House of Assembly initiated an impeachment notice to Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. The notice grants him 7 days to respond.
The development occurs amidst an intense power struggle between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Shaibu.
The relationship between Shaibu and Obaseki has been strained ever since the Deputy raised the alarm about a plot to impeach him. In response, he initiated legal proceedings against the planned move.
It was said that the Governor has even relocated his office away from the government house, opting for virtual attendance at executive council meetings via Zoom.
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Also, Shaibu has not been accorded the official protocol during public activities.
The crux of the matter lies in Shaibu’s ambition to succeed his boss—a move that Obaseki does not endorse.
READ ALSO: Edo: I Will Defeat Gov Obaseki’s Anointed Candidate – Philip Shaibu
Despite the Governor’s appeals for him to remain calm and avoid distracting governance, Shaibu has persisted in pursuing his political aspirations.
Furthermore, Shaibu is currently in court, challenging the legitimacy of the February 2022 governorship primary election of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He claims to be the authentic candidate emerging from a parallel process.
Meanwhile, the National Youth Council (NYC) Europe Chapter, represented by Comrade Collins Idahosa, has cautioned Obaseki against proceeding with the impeachment of his estranged deputy, deeming it “ill-timed.”
Idahosa said on Tuesday:
“This is not the time to talk about impeachment. Politics is a game, all the stakeholders should call themselves into an inner room, discuss and settle whatever may be the issue. Edo State needs peace now more than ever before.
“I want to plead with our Governor, Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki and all stakeholders to embrace peace and tow the path of reconciliation instead of talking about impeachment.
“It’s not helpful because it’s not in the interest of our state and especially, our people. As the father of the state, the Governor can rally everybody and find a solution.”