Gov Obaseki, Deputy, Shuaibu Rift Ends, As Leaders Of Thought Intervene, Court Case Withdrawn

By Ayodele Oni

Peace seems to be lurking between the embattled Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu, and Governor Godwin Obaseki. It would, thus, end weeks of cold war between two leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the State.

There were indications to this on Tuesday as the Deputy Governor announced the withdrawal of the suit he filed at the Federal High Court to stop alleged plots by Governor,Obaseki, to remove him from office.

Shaibu, in a circular dated September 5, 2023, cited the case with Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1027/2023 which named the Inspector General of Police, State Security Service, the Governor of Edo State, and the Chief Judge of Edo State as defendants.

The Deputy Governor explained that the decision to withdraw the suit came after series of meetings involving himself, Obaseki, and well-meaning citizens of Edo and Nigerians, including party leaders, traditional rulers, and the Archbishop, Benin Archdiocese of the Catholic Church.

Sensing his possible impeachment by the State Legislature, Shuaibu had rushed to the Federal High Court to file a suit restraining interested parties including the Governor from impeaching him.

The Assembly and Obaseki had since denied any move to that effect.

The Deputy Governor had however been subjected to various humiliations including his public blockage from meeting the Governor and relocation of his office to outside the Government House, Benin.

Shaibu’s interest to have a shot at the Governorship of the State is said to be one of the reasons behind the strained relationship with Obaseki.

In a letter of withdrawal, cited on Tuesday, Shuaibu stated that “With due respect to these eminent personalities and leaders, whose persuasions and persons I cannot ignore, I, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, have authorized and instructed my Solicitors to withdraw the Suit forthwith.

“I wish to sincerely thank and appreciate these well-meaning Nigerians, Party Leaders, Traditional Rulers, and my Archbishop, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Akubeze for their kind words, advise and encouragement thus far in ensuring peace and unity in our dear State, Edo.”