The Edo State Government has raised alarms, claiming that former Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu is planning an invasion of the Government House on Monday, September 30th, despite an ongoing legal stay of execution. According to government officials, Shaibu is allegedly attempting to forcefully reclaim his position following a court ruling, even though an appeal challenging the ruling is still pending.
In a strongly-worded statement, Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Edo State Government, called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and concerned Nigerians to intervene. Osagie warned that Shaibu’s actions could lead to chaos, citing a previous incident where a police officer was killed during an earlier confrontation at the Government House.
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Osagie stated, “We have intelligence that Comrade Philip Shaibu is plotting to storm the Edo State Government House to enforce a court ruling that is still under appeal. We urge the IGP to take immediate action to prevent a situation that could lead to further violence and anarchy. Shaibu’s previous attempt resulted in the death of a police officer—one death too many.”
The Edo State Government also revealed that its legal team has formally notified the IGP and other authorities, stressing that any enforcement of the court ruling should be halted until the Court of Appeal decides on the stay of execution. The government emphasized that allowing Shaibu to proceed could undermine the appeal process and destabilize Edo State.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on the IGP to ensure that law and order are maintained, with the government urging for swift action to prevent any potential breakdown of peace in Benin City and the wider Edo State.
